The currency of China is the Renminbi Yuan, with one Yuan equalling 10 chiao/jiao or 100 fen. Notes come in denominations of CNY100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1, and 5, 2 and 1 chiao/jiao. Coins are in denominations of CNY5 and 1, as well as 1 chiao/jiao and 5, 2 and 1 fen.

Money can be exchanged at The Bank of China - Scottish and Northern Irish banknotes are not exchanged, and Yuan is not available outside of China. Traveller's cheques are accepted, and to avoid additional conversion charges should be in US Dollars.

ATMs are available, though not frequent - especially outside of major cities. International credit and debit cards are accepted, though mainly only in major cities.

See:

Visa:              http://www.visa.com/atms/

MasterCard:  http://www.mastercard.com/cardholderservices/atm/

The import and export of domestic currency is limited to CNY20,000. The import of foreign currency is limited to around £500 ($1,000), though this figure sometimes differs for non-residents, so it is wise to check beforehand. Export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on entering the country.

Business

General banking hours in most areas are from 0900 to 1200 and from 1400 to 1700, Mondays to Fridays. Shopping hours are from 0900 to 1900 Mondays to Sundays.

A handshake is accepted as a normal form of greeting in business meetings, but western ideas of general politeness - small talk and the like - are not particularly observed, so this shouldn't be mistaken for rudeness on the part of the host.

Service charges are added to bills in the more upmarket hotels and restaurants, but tips for other services - especially outside of the major cities and away from tourist regions - are not expected.