URGENT UPDATE: UnionPay International has just announced an exclusive promotion that will provide global UnionPay credit cardholders with instant discounts of up to 15% at over 500 designated hotels in China. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the travel experience for international visitors and is effective from June 10 to October 31, 2025.
This partnership with the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) will allow travelers to save significantly when booking eligible properties through the official IHG website or the IHG One Rewards Mobile App, where UnionPay online payment is accepted. Cardholders using UnionPay credit cards issued outside of the mainland will enjoy substantial benefits, making travel to China more accessible and affordable.
Guests from South Korea and those with UnionPay SplendorPlus credit cards can benefit from a 15% discount, capped at 400 RMB. Meanwhile, other international cardholders will receive a 10% discount, up to 200 RMB, on their hotel bookings.
Why does this matter NOW? With travel to China on the rise, these discounts are poised to attract a wave of international visitors eager to explore the diverse offerings of the region. IHG operates more than 800 hotels across China, with over 530 participating in this promotion, ensuring a wide selection for travelers.
UnionPay’s broad acceptance across China, with its cards used at ATMs and major merchants, makes this offer even more compelling. As of now, more than 200 million UnionPay cards are in circulation across 83 countries, providing a seamless payment experience through real-time currency conversion without excessive fees.
Moreover, UnionPay cards are compatible with popular mobile wallets abroad, allowing for hassle-free payments without the need for additional apps. Travelers can also link their overseas-issued UnionPay cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay, unlocking further discounts with zero extra fees. This initiative underscores UnionPay’s commitment to easing the payment experience for international visitors.
In addition, UnionPay recently introduced the SplendorPlus card, tailored specifically for global travelers to China. This card comes with perks such as domestic airport privileges, access to popular attractions, local culinary experiences, and 1% cashback on spending within the mainland.
UnionPay International continues to expand its global footprint, partnering with over 56 institutions across 20 overseas markets for the SplendorPlus program, which has already reached over 10 million cards in circulation.
For travelers planning trips to China, this promotion represents a timely opportunity to enjoy both luxury and savings. As this announcement picks up steam, expect to see increased interest and bookings as international visitors take advantage of these exclusive hotel discounts.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more details emerge!
