Real China Series 01 - Is it safe in China?
Planning a trip to a new country always comes with a few questions, and for many, "Is it safe?" is at the top of the list. If you're wondering about traveling to China, let's put your mind at ease. The short answer? Yes, it's incredibly safe.
In fact, the biggest danger you'll likely face in China is an expanding waistline from all the delicious food.
The Strict Laws That Keep You Safe
One of the most significant reasons China is so safe is its strict gun control. Private gun ownership is illegal, which means you don't have to worry about gun violence. It's an issue that simply doesn't exist here.
Another major factor is China's tough stance on drugs. The country has some of the world's most severe anti-drug laws. This zero-tolerance policy has a direct and powerful impact on public safety, keeping drug-related crime exceptionally low.
When you combine these two things, you get a society where serious, violent crime is rare.
A Country That Never Sleeps (Safely)
What truly highlights China's safety is its vibrant and bustling nightlife. Unlike some places where you might feel uneasy walking alone after dark, China's cities are alive and well long after the sun goes down.
Need to grab a late-night snack? Head out to a street food stall or a barbecue joint (烧烤). You'll find families, couples, and friends enjoying themselves until the early hours. These scenes are a testament to how comfortable and secure people feel here, making it a particularly female-friendly destination. Solo women travelers often comment on how at ease they feel exploring cities at night, whether they're looking for a late-night bowl of noodles or just strolling through a park.
This late-night culture is also supported by the widespread use of digital payments. Almost everyone uses apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay for everything from groceries to street food. This means people rarely carry large amounts of cash, which dramatically reduces opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing.
