China Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in China.
Healthcare System
China has a two-tier healthcare system with public and private hospitals. International hospitals and private clinics in major cities offer high-quality care with English-speaking staff, while public hospitals are generally more affordable but may have language barriers and longer wait times.
Hospitals
International hospitals in major cities include Beijing United Family Hospital, Shanghai Parkway Health, and similar facilities in other large cities. These accept international insurance and have English-speaking staff. Public hospitals like Peking Union Medical College Hospital offer quality care but require Chinese language skills or a translator. Always carry cash or credit cards as payment is typically required upfront.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are widely available in cities. Many over-the-counter medications familiar to Western travelers may not be available or sold under different names. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Some Western brands are available in international pharmacy chains in major cities. Traditional Chinese medicine pharmacies are common but may not suit all travelers.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended and often required for visa applications. Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as this can cost over $100,000 if needed. Most hospitals require upfront payment, so adequate coverage and emergency funds are essential.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete supply of prescription medications as specific brands may be unavailable; carry a doctor's letter explaining your medications
- Download offline translation apps for medical terms in case of emergencies
- Keep copies of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers in both digital and physical formats
- Register with international hospitals in your destination city upon arrival for faster emergency service
- Air pollution can exacerbate respiratory conditions; consider bringing masks and necessary medications if sensitive
- Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid ice in drinks outside of international hotels and restaurants
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded areas, tourist attractions, public transportation, and markets. While less common than in some countries, opportunistic theft targets distracted tourists.
Traffic rules are often loosely followed, with vehicles, electric scooters, and bicycles frequently ignoring traffic signals. Pedestrians do not always have right of way, even at crosswalks.
Many Chinese cities experience significant air pollution, with PM2.5 levels frequently exceeding safe limits, especially in winter. This can cause respiratory issues and eye irritation.
Traveler's diarrhea and foodborne illness can occur from contaminated water, street food, or unfamiliar cuisine. Tap water is not safe to drink.
China has extensive internet censorship (Great Firewall) and surveillance. Public WiFi networks are often monitored, and sensitive data can be accessed. Many Western websites and apps are blocked.
China has strict laws with severe penalties for offenses that might be minor elsewhere, including drug possession, political criticism, and visa violations. Foreigners are not exempt and may face detention without consular access.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Friendly locals (often attractive young women or art students) approach tourists near major attractions, practice English, and invite them for tea or to see an art exhibition. Victims are then presented with an extremely inflated bill (often hundreds or thousands of dollars) and pressured or threatened to pay.
People dressed as Buddhist monks approach tourists, offer 'blessings' or bracelets, then aggressively demand money. Some beggars, particularly those with children or disabilities, may be part of organized operations.
Unlicensed 'black taxis' charge inflated rates, take unnecessarily long routes, claim meters are broken, or refuse to use meters. Some drivers may take tourists to shops or restaurants where they receive commissions.
Vendors, taxi drivers, or money changers may give counterfeit bills as change, particularly 50 and 100 yuan notes. Some shops may also refuse genuine large bills claiming they are fake.
Legitimate-looking massage parlors advertise low prices but add numerous hidden fees, or offer 'special services' then charge exorbitant amounts and threaten customers who refuse to pay.
Scalpers sell fake tickets or charge inflated prices for attraction tickets near popular tourist sites. Some pose as 'official guides' offering package deals that are overpriced or fraudulent.
Scammers pose as police officers, claim to need to check your passport or money for counterfeit bills, then steal cash or demand payment for fabricated violations.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Documentation and Legal
- Carry your passport with valid visa at all times; police can request ID, and penalties for not having it are severe
- Make multiple copies of passport, visa, and important documents; store separately and digitally
- Register with your embassy upon arrival, especially for extended stays
- Understand that Chinese law applies to foreigners; ignorance is not a defense
- Avoid any political activities, protests, or criticism of the government, even on social media
- Respect photography restrictions at military sites, government buildings, and where posted
- Be aware that some areas (Tibet, Xinjiang) require special permits; unauthorized travel can result in detention
Communication and Technology
- Set up a VPN before arriving; many are blocked once in China
- Download offline maps (Maps.me, Google Maps offline) as Google services are blocked
- Install Chinese apps before travel: WeChat (essential for communication and payment), Didi (taxi), Alipay, Baidu Maps
- Get a local SIM card for reliable communication; available at airports and phone shops
- Learn basic Mandarin phrases or download translation apps (Pleco, Google Translate offline mode)
- Have hotel addresses and key destinations written in Chinese characters
- Keep your phone charged; portable chargers are essential as you'll rely heavily on apps
Money and Payments
- China is increasingly cashless; set up WeChat Pay or Alipay if possible (requires Chinese bank account or international card setup)
- Carry cash as backup, especially in smaller cities; ATMs are widely available in urban areas
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Use bank ATMs rather than standalone machines to avoid skimming
- Keep small denominations; some vendors can't break large bills
- Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and some restaurants, but cash or mobile payment is more reliable
- Bargaining is expected at markets but not in established stores with price tags
Transportation Safety
- Use official transportation apps (Didi for taxis, 12306 for trains) to avoid scams
- China's high-speed rail is safe, efficient, and recommended for intercity travel
- Keep valuables secure on overnight trains; use cable locks for luggage if possible
- Metro systems in major cities are safe, clean, and efficient; avoid rush hours if possible
- Be extremely cautious crossing streets; traffic can be chaotic and vehicles may not yield
- Avoid renting cars unless experienced with Chinese traffic; drivers need Chinese licenses
- Book transportation in advance during Chinese holidays (Spring Festival, Golden Week) when travel is extremely crowded
Accommodation Safety
- Only foreigners can legally stay in licensed hotels; verify hotel accepts foreign guests before booking
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Check that windows and doors lock securely; request room changes if concerned
- International chain hotels offer more consistent safety standards and English support
- Keep emergency contact numbers and hotel address cards with you when going out
- Be aware of fire exits and emergency procedures
- Budget hostels and guesthouses may have varying safety standards; read recent reviews
Health and Hygiene
- Bring hand sanitizer and use frequently; public restroom standards vary widely
- Pack toilet paper or tissues; not always provided in public restrooms
- Be prepared for squat toilets, especially outside major cities
- Get recommended vaccinations before travel (Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, routine vaccines)
- Bring a basic medical kit with common medications, as specific brands may be unavailable
- Wash hands before eating and avoid touching your face in public areas
- Be cautious with street food; choose busy vendors with high turnover and thoroughly cooked items
Cultural Sensitivity and Etiquette
- Respect local customs and cultural sites; dress modestly at temples and religious sites
- Avoid discussing sensitive political topics (Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Tiananmen Square, government criticism)
- Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants
- Don't write in red ink (associated with death) and avoid giving clocks as gifts
- Tipping is not customary and may be refused; service charges are usually included
- Be patient with cultural differences and language barriers; maintain a friendly demeanor
- Public displays of affection are becoming more accepted but remain modest
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
China is generally safe for women travelers, with lower rates of harassment and assault compared to many countries. Women can travel solo relatively safely in major cities and tourist areas. However, cultural differences exist, and women should take standard precautions, especially when traveling alone. The strong security presence and extensive surveillance in urban areas provide some protection, though language barriers can make seeking help challenging.
- Solo female travel is common and generally safe in major cities; maintain standard precautions as you would anywhere
- Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention, especially outside major international cities; this is more about cultural fit than safety
- Use official transportation apps (Didi) rather than hailing taxis on the street, especially at night
- Book accommodations in well-reviewed, centrally located areas; international chain hotels offer consistent safety standards
- Be aware that some men may stare or want photos, particularly if you're Western; this is usually curiosity rather than threat
- Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and watch your drink at bars; while drink spiking is rare, it has occurred
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself politely but firmly
- Join women-only travel groups or tours if you prefer company; several operate in China
- Keep phone charged and have emergency contacts readily accessible; consider a portable charger
- Learn basic phrases for 'no,' 'leave me alone,' and 'help' in Mandarin
- Public transportation is generally safe at all hours, but remain alert and sit near other passengers
- Sanitary products are widely available in cities but bring preferred brands as options may be limited
- Connect with other travelers through hostels or online communities for shared activities
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in China and was declassified as a mental illness in 2001. However, same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals. Public discussion of LGBTQ+ topics has become more restricted in recent years, with censorship of LGBTQ+ content in media and online platforms.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; while unlikely to face legal issues, it may attract unwanted attention
- Shanghai and Beijing have the most developed LGBTQ+ scenes with some gay bars, clubs, and events, though these can be low-key
- Use LGBTQ+ travel apps to connect with local communities and find gay-friendly venues, but be aware of privacy concerns
- Some international hotels in major cities are explicitly LGBTQ+-friendly and train staff accordingly
- Be cautious about sharing LGBTQ+ content on Chinese social media platforms due to censorship and surveillance
- When booking accommodations, same-sex couples may occasionally encounter questions or assumptions; international chains are generally more understanding
- Pride events are rare and not officially sanctioned; any LGBTQ+ gatherings are typically small and private
- LGBTQ+ organizations operate quietly; some provide resources and community but maintain low profiles
- Trans travelers may face additional challenges with identification documents and public facilities; plan accordingly
- Healthcare providers may lack training in LGBTQ+ health issues; international clinics in major cities are more likely to be sensitive
- Dating apps are popular but exercise caution when meeting people; use public locations and inform someone of your plans
- While physical safety is generally not a major concern, emotional comfort may vary; connect with LGBTQ+ travel communities for support and recommendations
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting China due to high medical costs at international hospitals, language barriers in healthcare, potential for medical evacuation (which can exceed $100,000), and the need for upfront payment at most medical facilities. China's distance from many travelers' home countries makes emergency evacuation particularly expensive. Additionally, trip interruptions due to natural disasters, political situations, or sudden area closures can result in significant financial loss without insurance coverage.
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