Safety and Common Scams: A Risk List for Traveling in China

Overall Public Security

China's violent crime rate is low on a global scale. Walking on city streets at night is generally safe, and public transportation and tourist attractions have good security. The real risks are concentrated in property-related and consumer-related areas.

Common Scams

1. The "Helpful Person" around Tourist Attractions

• They may proactively start a conversation, saying things like "The attraction is closed today," "This road is blocked," or "I can show you a shortcut" — mostly leading to induced spending.
• Response: Only trust official announcements and staff from the attraction.

2. "Free" Experiences

• Free tea tastings, free watch performances, free photos, free tours — all end up leading to high-price purchases.
• Response: Do not accept any free services that are proactively offered.

3. Exorbitant Bills at Teahouses and Bars

• Some places charge high prices for travelers from other regions or abroad; bills do not match the verbally quoted price.
• Response: Confirm the price list before entering the store; check each item when paying. In case of dispute, immediately call 12315 (consumer complaints) or 110.

4. "Antiques" and "Jewelry"

• Hetian jade, jadeite, Thangka, ancient coins — authenticity and pricing are extremely opaque.
• Response: Do not buy. If you really want to purchase, go to qualified, legitimate stores and ask for a certificate of authentication and a receipt.

5. Taxi and Ride-Hailing Detours

• See the "Taxi and Ride-Hailing" section. Response: use navigation to monitor the route.

6. "Donations" at Temples and Religious Sites

• Fake monks will engage in conversation, offer fortune-telling, or request donations. In official temples, donation boxes are inside the hall and no one will actively demand money.
• Response: Ignore any self-initiated approach by so-called "monks".

7. Internet and SMS

• Fraudulent messages and calls impersonating police, banks, or delivery companies are very common in China.
• Response: Do not click links in messages, do not disclose verification codes. Police in China will not handle cases over the phone.

Property Safety

• Pickpockets: Concentrated in subway rush hours, train stations, tourist entrances, and night markets. Carry your backpack in front.
• Hotel Rooms: Use the safe to store your passport and cash.
• Copies of Documents: Scan your passport and Taiwan Compatriot Permit and store a copy in the cloud; very useful if you need to replace them.
• Loss: If your passport is lost, report it to the police immediately (obtain a report certificate) and contact your embassy or relevant authorities.

Transportation and Outdoors

• Crossing the Road: Chinese vehicles will not yield to pedestrians voluntarily, even on crosswalks. Check the lights and traffic; do not assume.
• Electric Bicycles: They are numerous and quiet, making them easy for pedestrians to overlook.
• Mountain and Plateau Areas: See the sections "Hiking and Mountaineering Safety" and "Altitude Sickness."
• Bodies of Water: Wild swimming and undeveloped waters have accidents every year; only swim in regulated areas.

Emergency Contacts

• 110 Police 120 Ambulance 119 Fire
• 12315 Consumer Complaints 12301 Tourism Service Hotline
• Highway Assistance: 12122

Police and ambulance services respond quickly in cities, but rural and remote mountain areas may be slower.