For those who forgot card and cash, you can now ride the metro by following them on WeChat, scan to track trip and pay for fare.

For bus commuters. Install UnionPay app and get on public buses for just a pretty penny.

Thanks, but how to follow them on wechat?

search for 乘车码, mini-program in WeChat

@Spartans

Philou is correct.

Or simply use your WeChat and scan the QR Code image below:

imgur.com/09jFMNe

You will be linked to the official mini-program called 乘车码 (chengchema).

It can pay fares for both MRT and buses for most cities in China (select cities top left corner). Not just for Kunming's transportation systems.

After authorizing payment synchronization to your WeChat Pay. Commuting subway or bus via smartphone becomes easy. No more fumbling for cash or coins while people push and grunt behind you.

For MRT/subway:

Choose left tab "地铁" (ditie). QR Code will display, and refreshed periodically. Scan at turnstile.

For buses:

At the top select the right tab labeled "公交" (gongjiao). QR Code will appear to be scanned (sensor located at bottom of machine) when embarking. At which point an automated voice will say "success" in Chinese "成功" (chengong).

"Pin to desktop" (top right corner option) for quick access.

I suggest GoKunming embed this QR Code image somewhere on this website for the convenience of commuting readers.

If leaving electronic paper trails everywhere bothers you, note that cash still works.

Cash won’t exist soon?

So where is the reader on the subway?

@Ishmael, rickshaw also still works. You may find two of them on standby for hire in the Old Street alleyway.

@bucko: "So where is the reader on the subway?"

The reader for phone's QR code is in the same gates where you would normally have your paper ticket or card read.

@bucko

QR Code reader is right below the card slot