Beijing Safety Guide
Is Beijing Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Beijing and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Beijing crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Beijing, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, you'll find Beijing quite secure during the day. Still, take a moment to review our guide on common tourist traps. Evenings require increased attention, though main tourist areas remain generally secure.
Robberies and Theft: low
Armed Robberies: low
Assaults: low
Corruption: high
Drug Issues: low
Beggars: moderate
Vandalism: moderate
Theft from Cars: moderate
Car Theft: moderate
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Overcharge Scam (High Risk) - Unofficial taxis, often lingering near airports and major hotels, may refuse to use the meter and offer inflated flat rates instead. Always use official taxi stands and insist on a working meter to avoid being overcharged.
Tea House Scam (Medium Risk) - Tourist-friendly tea houses in places like Wangfujing may invite you to a traditional tea ceremony, only to present a hefty bill for expensive teas. Politely refuse invitations from strangers and be cautious about unsolicited offers for "authentic" experiences.
Fake Charity Scam (Medium Risk) - People near tourist sites such as Tiananmen Square may approach you claiming to collect money for a charitable cause, often using fake identification. Politely decline and confirm any charity with official sources if in doubt.
Shopping Fake Discounts (Medium Risk) - Shops in areas like Silk Street Market may falsely advertise products as 'authentic' or 'designer,' marking up prices for unwary tourists. Be sure to research prices beforehand and negotiate firmly before purchase.
Counterfeit Currency Exchange (Medium Risk) - Some exchange booths around busy tourist areas like Qianmen Street may offer seemingly attractive rates but hand back counterfeit bills. Always use reputable banks or official exchange facilities for currency transactions.
Street Performer Tricks (Low Risk) - Street performers, particularly in Sanlitun, may engage you in a captivating act but then aggressively ask for tips, sometimes forming crowds to pressure you. Enjoy the performance but avoid engaging or giving money to avoid unwanted attention.
Photography Scout Scam (Low Risk) - Individuals around popular attractions like The Great Wall may offer to take photos of you, only to later demand payment for their 'services.' Politely decline offers from strangers and ask fellow tourists to take your pictures instead.
Tea House Scam (Medium Risk) - Tourist-friendly tea houses in places like Wangfujing may invite you to a traditional tea ceremony, only to present a hefty bill for expensive teas. Politely refuse invitations from strangers and be cautious about unsolicited offers for "authentic" experiences.
Fake Charity Scam (Medium Risk) - People near tourist sites such as Tiananmen Square may approach you claiming to collect money for a charitable cause, often using fake identification. Politely decline and confirm any charity with official sources if in doubt.
Shopping Fake Discounts (Medium Risk) - Shops in areas like Silk Street Market may falsely advertise products as 'authentic' or 'designer,' marking up prices for unwary tourists. Be sure to research prices beforehand and negotiate firmly before purchase.
Counterfeit Currency Exchange (Medium Risk) - Some exchange booths around busy tourist areas like Qianmen Street may offer seemingly attractive rates but hand back counterfeit bills. Always use reputable banks or official exchange facilities for currency transactions.
Street Performer Tricks (Low Risk) - Street performers, particularly in Sanlitun, may engage you in a captivating act but then aggressively ask for tips, sometimes forming crowds to pressure you. Enjoy the performance but avoid engaging or giving money to avoid unwanted attention.
Photography Scout Scam (Low Risk) - Individuals around popular attractions like The Great Wall may offer to take photos of you, only to later demand payment for their 'services.' Politely decline offers from strangers and ask fellow tourists to take your pictures instead.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
In my country, the Ministry of Internal Affairs operates under two laws: one concerning the police and another regarding the status of military personnel, since internal troops are considered soldiers.
Notice their posture - the middle finger aligned precisely with the stripe. In my experience, military drill regulations require fingers to be bent at the first joint while at attention. However, China seems to approach this from a more practical standpoint - if standing for long periods, bent fingers are bound to get numb. »
-Attention ventilation!
-Put on a gas mask!
-Fasten your seatbelts!
I didn't fasten my seatbelt because I'm worried I’ll get fined for not following safety rules. 😂 »