Safety

Illustration of a woman walking calmly at night down a lantern-lit street

Is China safe to visit?

What governments say about safety in China, the most common scams, your passport, traffic and emergency numbers. Clear and calm, before you go.

By Armando Pacheco, who lives in Shanghai · Reviewed 15 Oct 2026

Yes. China is a calm place to travel if you take the care you would in any big city. Here is what the governments that follow the country closely say, and what is worth knowing before you go.

What governments say

The UK government says serious crime against foreigners is rare, though it can happen. Canada asks for a high degree of caution, mainly because of local laws and ID checks, not crime. The most common problem is petty theft in crowded places.

The scams that do exist

The tea or drinks invitation. A friendly stranger invites you to a tea house or bar in a tourist area and you get a huge bill. If you do not know them, say no.
The taxi with no meter. At the airport or station exit someone offers you a car. Use the official taxi line or book a DiDi in Alipay.
The fake bus to the Terracotta Army. Near the old Xi'an railway station, people sell tickets on the street for buses that are not the official ones.
The "police" phone call. If someone calls saying they are the police and asks for money, send nothing and hang up.
QR codes stuck on top. Before you pay, check that the name on your phone matches the place.

Get Alipay ready before you go7 steps with photos, direct download and your progress saved→

Always carry your passport

Police do random checks and do not accept copies. Carry your original passport, also to enter museums, buy train tickets and board trains. Your hotel asks for it on arrival to register you with the police. This is normal and they do it for you.

Traffic needs the most care

Drivers do not always give way and the rules are not always followed. Cross at crossings and look both ways even on a green light. To get around, the metro is the easiest and safest option.

Rules worth knowing

Drug laws are very strict, even for small amounts. There can be random tests, even when you enter the country.
Stay away from demonstrations and large protests.
Do not take photos of military areas.

If something goes wrong

Police 110, ambulance 120 and fire 119. They are free and work all over China. Save your hotel address in Chinese on your phone to show the taxi driver. If something goes wrong walks you through it, also offline.

Keep planning your trip

Sources

Checked on 15 October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe for a woman travelling alone?

Take the same care as in any big city. Canada warns of harassment on buses and overnight trains. At night, a DiDi is better than a taxi waiting on the street.

Can I use Google and WhatsApp?

Not with a normal Chinese SIM. With a travel eSIM, yes. See Internet and apps.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is strongly advised. See what it should cover in Packing, health and insurance.

Can I drink tap water?

No. Drink bottled or boiled water.