China
Welcome to one of the most historically significant countries in the world, boasting a 3000-year long history, modern technological wonders and some of the most culturally defining historical landmarks in the world. As one of the four great civilisations of the ancient world, China is a country like no other. Prepare for mouthwatering food, extravagant ancient monuments and a breathtaking culture that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
CNY
Asia
The money
With a history of over 3000 years, Chinese currency existed in both Ancient and Imperial China. In 1914, the Silver Dollar was established as the official currency of the Republic of China, with copper, fen, and nickel coins being added in the 1930s. During this time silver appreciated in value, and China could no longer retain the silver standard.
- Currency
- Chinese Yuan
- Code
- CNY
- Symbol
- ¥
- One Australian dollar
- 4.5834 CNY
Bank notes
- ¥1
- ¥5
- ¥10
- ¥20
- ¥50
- ¥100
Coins
- 1 Jiao
- 5 Jiao
- ¥1
We supply notes only. Coins are listed so you know what the change in your pocket is worth.
What things cost in China
The left column is what the guide records locally. The right column is that same figure through today’s rate — the arithmetic we would do for you at the counter, done here instead.
| Everyday price | Yuan | Australian dollars |
|---|---|---|
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range restaurant | 150 | A$32.73 |
| Bottle of water | 5 | A$1.09 |
| Tourist T-shirt | 30 | A$6.55 |
Converted at 1 AUD = 4.5834 CNY, our online rate as at 13 Sep 2026, 02:34. Local prices are a guide to what you will pay, not a quote.
Before you go
- Plan your trip in advance and secure a visa. China requires all visitors to have a valid visa with them upon entering the country including travel dates, travel itinerary and your passport. Plan for this at least 2 months in advance to ensure you have everything you need to enter the country.
- Try to learn some basic mandarin and common phrases. Although English, especially in major cities, is becoming increasingly more used by the locals, it will be especially difficult to find your way around more rural areas if you cannot speak any mandarin. Not only will it help you immensely for travelling, but the locals will also love you for putting in the effort to learn their language!
- Purchase a VPN before going into China. Censorship is huge in China and many of your favourite websites such as Youtube, Facebook and Instagram are all blocked there! Grabbing a VPN will go a long way in helping you reconnect with the outside world.
- Bring your own napkins, toilet paper and sanitiser. Some parts of China are especially dirty and even have toilets that do not have toilet paper for you to use! It is therefore extremely advantageous to always have spare toilet paper and hand sanitiser on you wherever you go to ensure that your hands are always clean and free from germs.
- Bargain for everything! Nothing in China has a set price. Unless you are in a shopping centre looking for designer brands, there is always a high chance that shop owners will cut their prices down if you just convince them to. The experience is not only extremely fun and different to shopping at home, but an assertive personality can land you some products for almost 80% off their original price! If they refuse to go any lower, just walk away and there is almost a guarantee that they will come running after you.
- Air pollution is a huge problem in China. If you feel you that you may experience some breathing issues while travelling there, avoid major cities or wear a breathing mask.
- Tap water in China is not safe for drinking! Either boil all your water before drinking it or avoid it altogether and stick with bottled water!
China, photographed
-
Great Wall of China — view full size
Great Wall of China -
Forbidden City — view full size
Forbidden City -
Terracotta Warriors — view full size
Terracotta Warriors -
Yangtze River — view full size
Yangtze River -
Giant Buddha - Le Shan — view full size
Giant Buddha - Le Shan -
Zhangjiajie National Park — view full size
Zhangjiajie National Park -
Potala Palace — view full size
Potala Palace
Order your CNY before you fly
Order online at today’s rate and collect it at the Ringwood counter, or have it delivered. The rate on this page is the rate we transact at.