The short answer
- Emergency numbers: 110 police, 120 ambulance, 119 fire, 122 traffic accidents.
- Carry your passport; hotels, trains and some attractions need it.
- Watch out for tea-house and art-gallery scams in tourist areas.
- If you lose your passport, report it to the police and contact your embassy.
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Emergency numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance | 120 |
| Fire | 119 |
| Traffic accidents | 122 |
Common scams
- Tea house or art gallery invitations from friendly strangers, ending with a very large bill.
- Unlicensed taxis at airports and stations. Use the official queue or a ride-hailing app.
- Fake tour offers outside attractions. Buy tickets through official channels.
Traffic
Traffic may not stop at crossings, and electric scooters are quiet and fast. Look both ways, even on pavements.
Losing your passport
Report the loss at the nearest police station, contact your embassy or consulate for an emergency travel document, and visit the local exit-entry administration office for the documents you need to leave China.
Questions
Is China safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Violent crime against visitors is rare. Take normal care with belongings, traffic and scams in tourist areas.
What should I do if I lose my passport in China?
Report it at the nearest police station to get a loss report, then contact your embassy or consulate for an emergency travel document. You will also need exit documents from the local exit-entry office.
Rules change. We re-check this guide regularly; confirm details before you travel or ship.
