#China #Shanghai #UnionPay #Travel Discounts #IHG Hotels

UnionPay International and IHG Collaboration

In a significant move to enhance travel experiences for global visitors, UnionPay International (UPI), a top provider of payment solutions, has announced an exclusive promotional campaign in collaboration with the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). This initiative provides UnionPay cardholders from outside Mainland China with immediate discounts at over 500 participating hotels across the region.

Campaign Overview

From June 10 to October 31, 2025, guests who book eligible hotels via the official IHG website or the IHG One Rewards Mobile App will enjoy substantial savings. Holders of UnionPay credit cards issued outside the Chinese mainland can receive an instant discount of 15%, up to 400 RMB, when using cards issued in South Korea or UnionPay SplendorPlus cards. Meanwhile, other foreign-issued UnionPay cards will allow customers to benefit from a 10% discount, capped at 200 RMB.

This promotional offer includes a wide array of IHG properties. The spectrum covers luxury brands such as Six Senses Hotels, Regent Hotels, and InterContinental, extending down to premium options like Crowne Plaza and even budget-friendly brands like Holiday Inn Express. More than 530 hotels within IHG's extensive network in China are geared up to support this outdoor initiative, which is designed to enhance the overall payment experience for international cardholders.

Strengthening Payment Solutions

One of the highlights of this campaign is the seamless integration of UnionPay’s online payment system at these hotels. This infrastructure ensures that international visitors can enjoy a trouble-free payment process while traveling in China. With UnionPay’s extensive network, which boasts universal acceptance at ATMs and major retailers, travelers can experience real-time currency conversion without excessive fees.

Moreover, many popular mobile wallets abroad support UnionPay QR codes, allowing customers to make payments in stores easily—facilitating a hassle-free shopping experience. Travelers can also link their UnionPay cards issued overseas to Alipay or WeChat Pay to avail themselves of unique discounts without incurring extra charges.

Launch of SplendorPlus

As part of its ongoing development, UnionPay launched its SplendorPlus card last year, specifically tailored for international visitors in China. The features of this card are quite attractive, offering a variety of benefits, including privileges at local airports, access to popular tourist attractions, cultural experiences, local culinary discounts, and even cashback on expenses incurred on the Chinese mainland.

Currently, UPI has partnered with 56 institutions across 20 international markets to promote the SplendorPlus program, significantly broadening its reach and appeal to millions of cardholders.

About IHG

The InterContinental Hotels Group operates more than 6000 hotels across 110 countries and regions worldwide. The group is known for its vast portfolio, including luxury, premium, and affordable brands, making it a hotspot for travelers seeking diverse accommodation options. The partnership with UnionPay is yet another testament to IHG’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences, efficiently integrating global payment solutions for international visitors.

About UnionPay International

UnionPay International focuses on growing and supporting UnionPay's global business, partnering with over 2,600 partners worldwide to enable card acceptance in 183 countries and regions. With a focus on cost-effective and secure cross-border payment services, UPI aims to provide local services to a growing base of cardholders globally, enhancing the overall travel experience for international visitors in China.

This exclusive promotional offer not only highlights the potential of strategic partnerships but also invites international travelers to explore China with ease and confidence, assured of a personalized and cost-effective hospitality experience.