Is it Safe to Travel to China?

By xiaoyue\June 11 2025

Xiamen City，Southeast China

I believe this is a question that many friends who want to travel to China are deeply concerned about, especially given the influence of some media’s non-objective or even deliberately distorted reporting, which has created misunderstandings and negative impressions about China among many foreign friends.

For example, portrayals of China as poor, dirty, crime-ridden, with people living in misery, or even as a “police state” – seeing these reports makes me feel sad and upset, even somewhat angry, because that is not the real China of today!

I acknowledge that China still has many shortcomings (but which country doesn’t have problems?), yet it improves every day and is becoming increasingly open, strong, and beautiful.

So, friends, please let me tell you from the perspective of an ordinary Chinese person: Is China really safe? And for foreign friends, what safety matters do you absolutely need to know?

China’s public security situation is generally very safe, especially in cities and tourist areas. Even if you’re traveling to China for the first time from far away, there’s no need to worry.

China has a relatively low crime rate, with street crimes such as theft and robbery being uncommon, and violent street incidents extremely rare. In many places, you can go out alone at night without concern. This is thanks to comprehensive surveillance systems and strict security management measures.

However, as travelers—particularly international visitors—it’s still necessary to remain vigilant and take basic safety precautions.

Safety Precautions

Secure Your Valuables: When going out, store valuable items in your hotel’s safe whenever possible. In public places, especially crowded areas, use anti-theft bags or keep valuables in inside pockets for better security.

Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Electronic payments are very popular in China. We recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay to reduce the risk of carrying cash.

Beware of Scams: In tourist areas, some people may pretend to offer services or products (such as overpriced “tea tasting” experiences or fake tour guides). Be particularly wary of taxi drivers soliciting passengers on the roadside , tour guides, or unidentified individuals. Always choose legitimate channels for transactions and be cautious of unsolicited offers to enter expensive shops or bars.

Avoid Unlicensed Taxis: Never take any taxi without proper identification or accept rides from private cars that approach you. We strongly recommend using the DiDi app (similar to Uber) or ride-hailing services available through Alipay and WeChat

For Female Travelers: Especially those traveling alone, drink alcohol cautiously and never accept rides from strangers.

Beijing Female Patrol Officer

Legal Compliance

✅Always carry your passport and visa with you
✅Never participate in any political gatherings or illegal assemblies, even peaceful demonstrations
✅China has zero tolerance for drugs—possession or use of any drugs (including marijuana) is a serious crime with severe legal consequences
✅Don’t drink and drive—even small amounts of alcohol in your blood will result in penalties
✅Avoid political or sensitive topics in public spaces, including discussions about Taiwan, Tibet sovereignty, public criticism of the government, leaders, or sensitive historical events
✅Don’t photograph military sites, borders, military personnel, or police officers

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

Handshakes or friendly nods with smiles are common ways to show respect and friendliness
Use titles or surnames (for example, “Mr. Wang” rather than first names) when addressing people
Public displays of affection (hugging, kissing) are uncommon and typically avoided
When dining, never stick chopsticks upright in rice (this resembles funeral rituals in China)
Tipping is not required and can sometimes cause confusion (some restaurants may even chase after you to return it)

Sanlitun，Beijing

Emergency Response Guidelines

If you encounter an emergency in China, especially situations that may threaten your personal safety, please first remain calm and prioritize seeking assistance from people wearing work uniforms nearby, such as police officers, military personnel, security guards, airport/train station staff, or volunteers. Trust me, the vast majority of ordinary Chinese people are very willing to provide you with necessary help—don’t be shy about actively seeking their assistance.

Emergency Contact Numbers

✅110: Police emergency number for any emergency situation (Remember: during your stay in China, if you encounter any problem requiring external help, you can call 110!)
✅120: Medical emergency number for health or medical emergencies
✅119: Fire emergency number for fires or other critical situations

Seeking Help

Most scenic areas and cities have police stations or police patrols. In emergency situations, seek their assistance—police are usually very helpful to foreign visitors.

Contact Your Consulate

If you lose your passport or encounter serious incidents, contact your country’s consulate immediately for assistance, necessary documentation, and legal aid. We recommend researching your embassy or consulate’s address and contact information before traveling to China and saving it in your phone’s emergency contacts.

This covers the essential safety knowledge you need for traveling safely in China. As long as you follow Chinese laws and respect local customs, China is absolutely safe and reassuring for visitors.

Have a wonderful trip!