Is China Safe for Foreign Tourists? What You Need to Know

Overall Safety in China

China consistently ranks among the safer destinations for international travelers. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The country has extensive CCTV surveillance, and petty theft, while it exists, is far less common than in many Western European tourist destinations.

• ✓Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu are very safe at night
• ✓Tourist areas are particularly well-policed
• ✓Emergency number in China is 110 (police) and 120 (ambulance)

Common Scams to Avoid

While violent crime is rare, tourist scams exist — especially in Beijing near major attractions.

• ✓"Tea house" scam: friendly locals invite you for tea, then present an enormous bill
• ✓"Art student" scam: students ask you to visit their gallery and pressure you to buy overpriced art
• ✓Fake Forbidden City tickets sold near the gate — always buy from official ticket windows
• ✓Taxi drivers refusing to use the meter — always use DiDi to avoid this
• ✓Counterfeit goods sold as genuine — assume everything in tourist markets is fake

Digital Safety and VPNs

China blocks Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most Western news sites. A VPN lets you access these — but you must install it before entering China.

1. 1Install a reputable VPN before landing in China (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Astrill are commonly used)
2. 2Test your VPN on the plane or airport Wi-Fi before going through customs
3. 3VPNs exist in a legal grey area in China — use them discreetly

Health and Medical Safety

China has good hospitals in major cities, but communication can be a barrier. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended.

1. 1Buy comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage before your trip
2. 2Bring any prescription medication with a letter from your doctor in English
3. 3International hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff — find the nearest one before you go
4. 4Food safety is generally good — stick to busy restaurants with high turnover

Emergency Contacts in China

Save these numbers before you travel.

1. 1Police: 110
2. 2Ambulance: 120
3. 3Fire: 119
4. 4Your country's embassy in Beijing — find the number at your government's travel advisory site
5. 5Your travel insurance emergency line

Save these cards on your phone and show them directly to taxi drivers, restaurant staff, or anyone who can help.