Is China safe?
Yes — violent crime against visitors is rare, and cities are safe to walk at night. The bigger risks are small scams, pickpocketing in crowds, and traffic. Use normal city sense.
Practical safety
- Traffic: scooters and e-bikes may ignore lights; cross with the crowd and look both ways.
- Pickpockets: watch bags on busy metros and in markets.
- Taxis: use the official rank or DiDi; insist on the meter.
- Scams: be wary of friendly strangers inviting you to “tea” or a “show” that ends with a huge bill.
- Water: bottled or boiled water is safest; many hotels provide a kettle.
Etiquette that matters
| Situation | Do |
|---|---|
| Tipping | Not expected in restaurants or taxis |
| Queueing | Join the line; some places use numbered tickets |
| Public behaviour | Don’t lose your temper loudly — it rarely helps |
| Temples | Dress modestly; don’t photograph worshippers or restricted halls |
| Gifts / business | Use both hands; don’t open a gift immediately |
| Table manners | Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice |
| Smoking | Banned indoors in most cities |
Money and documents
- Carry your passport — hotels and some sights require it; police can ask.
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and insurance.
- Emergency numbers: 110 police, 120 ambulance, 119 fire.
- Embassy/consulate: save the number for your country’s mission.
Health
- Tap water isn’t for drinking; bottled/boiled is standard.
- Pharmacies (药店) are common; carry any prescription medicine with its packaging.
- Hospitals: international clinics in big cities have English-speaking staff (and higher fees).
- Air quality: check the AQI in northern cities in winter; a mask helps on bad days.
If something goes wrong
- Move to a safe, public place.
- Call 110 (police) — English support may be limited; a hotel or local can help translate.
- Contact your embassy/consulate for serious issues.
- Keep receipts and photos for insurance.