safety tips

Many international visitors experience trouble-free trips in China, but normal travel precautions still matter. Here's what you need to know about staying safe during your visit.

General Safety Overview

Violent crime affecting tourists is uncommon, while petty theft, traffic risk, scams, and crowding are more practical concerns. Conditions vary by place and event, so follow local notices and your government's current travel advice.

Day-to-Day Safety Tips

Personal Belongings

  • Carry your passport or other legally accepted identification when required; a photocopy may not satisfy an official document check
  • Keep secure digital and paper copies of your passport and visa separately in case the originals are lost
  • Keep valuables close, especially in tourist spots
  • Most payments are made through mobile apps, so carry minimal cash

Public Transportation

  • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
  • Keep your belongings close on public transport
  • Save your hotel address in Chinese characters

Health and Safety

  • Drink bottled or boiled water (tap water is not safe to drink)
  • Be careful when crossing streets
  • Follow local traffic rules
  • Keep emergency numbers handy:
    • Police: 110
    • Medical Emergency: 120
    • Fire: 119
    • Traffic Accident: 122

Domestic Flights and Power Banks

  • Since June 28, 2025, mainland domestic flights do not allow power banks with no CCC mark, an unclear CCC mark, or a recalled model or batch
  • Keep power banks in carry-on baggage, not checked baggage, and check both the airline's capacity rules and the current recall status before flying

Common Situations

Night Safety

Chinese cities are generally very safe at night, with well-lit streets and active nightlife. Night markets are popular evening destinations, offering street food, shopping and entertainment.

Tourist Areas

Popular attractions are typically very safe, but remember to:

  • Follow crowd management instructions
  • Keep your belongings secure
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Use official guides and services

Local Interactions

Chinese people are typically:

  • Helpful to tourists
  • Respectful and polite
  • Willing to assist even with language barriers
  • Curious about foreign visitors

Tips for communication:

  • Learn basic Chinese phrases
  • Use translation apps
  • Keep important addresses in Chinese characters
  • Smile and be courteous

Common Scams to Avoid

While rare, be cautious of:

  • Unofficial taxi services
  • Too-good-to-be-true shopping deals
  • Unsolicited guides or "friendly" strangers
  • Tea house or art gallery invitations from strangers

Cultural Awareness

Religious Respect

  • China recognizes five official religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Protestantism, and Catholicism
  • Public worship is allowed in designated places
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Avoid public preaching

Legal Considerations

  • Always carry ID (passport copy recommended)
  • Follow local laws and regulations
  • Zero tolerance for drugs
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Emergency Preparation

Important Contacts

  • Save your embassy's contact information
  • Keep emergency numbers in your phone
  • Have your hotel's contact details ready
  • Download useful apps (maps, translation, ride-hailing)

Medical Safety

  • Carry a reasonable personal supply of medicine in its original packaging, with prescriptions or diagnosis records for important or controlled medication
  • Keep your travel-insurance policy, claims process and 24-hour assistance contact available offline
  • For a non-emergency hospital visit, bring the original passport; public hospitals commonly require registration before the consultation and may have limited English support
  • For a medical emergency, call 120 and show a saved Chinese address or location pin
  • Store allergies, medical conditions and medicine names in a translated note that can be shown without internet access

The arrival and customs guide explains medicine documentation and domestic-flight power-bank checks in more detail.

Remember, millions of tourists visit China safely each year. By following these basic precautions and respecting local customs, you're sure to have a wonderful and safe experience exploring this fascinating country.