Having lived in both the US and China, I’ve experienced firsthand the contrasting safety landscapes of these two countries. During my five years in the US, I never once lost an iPhone, though my apartment was unfortunately burglarized once while I was away. Additionally, I wouldn’t dare venture out after sunset without the safety of my car.
In contrast, China offers a sense of security that allows me to stroll the streets at night without a worry. Ironically, despite my five years of iPhone safety in the US, I lost two within my first three months back in China! I had grown accustomed to the kindness of strangers returning lost phones in the US and naively let my guard down against street thieves in China.
However, times have changed. The rise of a cashless and cardless society, where smartphones are essential for everything from payments to transportation, has dramatically reduced opportunities for theft. People are constantly using their phones, making it difficult for thieves to snatch them unnoticed. Furthermore, the widespread presence of surveillance cameras acts as a powerful deterrent, making it challenging for criminals to escape detection.
In essence, while I experienced a few unfortunate incidents upon my return, China has evolved into a remarkably safe place, particularly in its major cities. The shift towards a digital lifestyle and increased surveillance has created an environment where petty theft is becoming increasingly rare.
China is Generally Safe: Backed by Data
Beyond my personal experiences, the safety of China is well-supported by various statistics and indices:
- Low Crime Rates: The 2023 Global Peace Index ranks China 80th out of 163 countries, placing it in the “medium” category for peacefulness. Surprisingly, many Western European and North American countries are ranked lower.
- Safe Cities Index: The 2022 Safe Cities Index, compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit, ranks Shanghai and Beijing favorably for personal security, even surpassing cities like London and New York.
- Tourist Safety: The U.S. State Department’s travel advisory for China currently lists it at Level 1 (“Exercise Normal Precautions”), the same level as numerous popular European destinations.
These statistics, along with countless positive anecdotes from travelers, paint a picture of China as a safe and welcoming destination. Even solo female travelers frequently report feeling comfortable exploring the country independently.
Beware of Scams: Protecting Yourself
While China is generally safe, opportunistic individuals may attempt to take advantage of tourists. Familiarize yourself with these common scams to protect yourself:
- The Tea Ceremony Scam: Friendly locals might invite you for tea, but be wary if they lead you to an overpriced tea house and pressure you into buying expensive products.
- The Art Student Scam: Someone posing as an art student may invite you to their “studio” or exhibition, where you’ll be pressured to buy overpriced artwork.
- The Overpriced Taxi/Tuk-Tuk Ride: Some drivers might take longer routes or refuse to use the meter, leading to inflated fares. Stick to reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
- Fake Goods: Beware of “bargains” on designer goods or electronics, especially in markets. Counterfeit products are prevalent.
Tips to Stay Safe
- Be aware of your surroundings. As in any major city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
- Say no politely but firmly. If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to decline politely.
- Use official transportation. Rely on reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps and purchase train or bus tickets from authorized sources.
- Bargain wisely. Haggling is common in markets, but be reasonable and don’t succumb to high-pressure sales tactics.
- Learn a few basic phrases. Knowing a few simple Mandarin phrases can facilitate communication and help you avoid misunderstandings.
Yin, Jeffrey