Emergency numbers in mainland China
- 110 — police
- 120 — ambulance and medical emergencies
- 119 — fire service
Share your location and the nature of the emergency as clearly as possible. If language is a barrier, ask hotel staff or a trusted local contact for help. Save your country's consular contact and travel-insurance assistance number before you go.
Avoid common tourist scams
- Use official attraction channels or reputable sellers; be cautious of unsolicited offers for unusually cheap tickets or tours.
- Decline invitations or services that make you uncomfortable, and do not follow strangers to a second location to pay.
- Check prices before ordering or accepting a service, and review the amount and recipient before approving a mobile payment.
- Do not give your passport, unlocked phone, passwords or verification codes to an unverified person.
Solo travel and everyday precautions
Plan how you will get back to your accommodation, especially late at night. Share your itinerary with someone you trust, keep valuables secure in crowded areas, and use licensed transport or a reputable ride-hailing app. Follow local instructions in stations, attractions and public spaces.
- Keep a secure copy of your passport, visa and insurance details separate from the originals.
- Save your hotel name and address in Chinese, both online and offline.
- Check current travel advice and local rules for your itinerary before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Is China safe for foreign travelers?
Many visitors travel around China without incident, but conditions differ by place and situation. Use ordinary precautions, follow local rules, protect valuables and check current travel advice from your government.
What are the emergency numbers in mainland China?
Call 110 for police, 120 for medical emergencies and 119 for fire. If possible, give your location clearly and ask hotel staff or a trusted local contact to help communicate.
What should I do if someone approaches me with a tourist scam?
Decline politely, leave the situation and do not hand over your passport, phone or payment details. Use official ticket counters and reputable services, and contact local authorities if you feel threatened or have lost money or documents.