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, 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
• 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

If you will take a mainland domestic flight, use a power bank with a clear CCC mark and confirm that its model has not been recalled.

Bring prescriptions or diagnosis records for important medicines, keep insurance-assistance details offline and carry the original passport if you need hospital registration.