Quick Overview
🏆 Overall Safety: Very High
👮 Crime Rate: Extremely Low
🏥 Healthcare: Efficient and Affordable
🚇 Infrastructure: Modern and Well-Maintained
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Extremely High
Introduction
After years of relative isolation due to Covid-19, China‘s international tourism is quickly gaining traction — partly because of deliberate government effort through its new 30 day visa waver for many countries, and partly as backfiring of US effort to discourage people from going there and an outpour of China travel content on Youtube.
f you're considering China as your next destination, you might be wondering: is China safe?
As a family living in Zurich (and for that reason used to safe day-to-day life) and having travelled extensively through China, I'll break down all the factors that contribute to safety based on our first-hand experience.
Table of Contents
- Crime Rates Comparison
- Healthcare and Infrastructure
- Traveling with Children
- Our Personal Experience
- Safety Tips
- FAQs
Crime Rates: China vs Other Countries
When comparing safety levels, it's best to look at actual statistics. The numbers are quite revealing - China is objectively much safer than many Western countries, including the United States.
China vs. United States Safety Metrics
| Safety Factor | China | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Crime Index | 31.8 | 47.8 |
| Safety Index | 68.2 | 52.2 |
| Safe Walking Alone (Night) | 68.9 | 45.7 |
Source: Numbeo Crime Comparison (2024)
The numbers speak for themselves - China is objectively much safer than the US.
Yet many travellers wouldn't even ask themselves a question "is US safe?" before traveling to San Francisco. United States are known for high levels of violent crimes, mass shootings and opioid-inflicted drug abuse problem.
It has also high (and rising) numbers of homeless people and that is also something that might make you feel unsafe.
Safety Comparison: Key Points
- China has significantly lower violent crime rates
- Virtually no homelessness in city centers
- Extremely safe public spaces, even at night
- High level of public security
Living in one of the safest cities in Europe, I can assure you that what you will see in China is on a comparable or even higher standard.
When you walk around the city in the evening, you will often see whole families on an outing having fun. You will feel perfectly safe even with small children or as a single female traveller.
What Makes Chinese Cities Different
Unlike many Western metropolitan areas, Chinese cities offer:
- Clean, well-maintained streets
- No people sleeping raugh on the streets
- Safe train stations (ticket required for entry)
- Comfortable evening atmosphere without extensive drinking
Healthcare and Infrastructure
Healthcare System
The Chinese healthcare system offers several advantages:
- Affordable medical care
- Efficient service
- Modern facilities in major cities
- Lower insurance requirements compared to US travel
Infrastructure Quality
Recent years have shown impressive development:
- Extensive, modern metro systems
- High-speed rail network
- Well-maintained roads and bridges
- Reliable public transportation
Magda
Traveling with Children in China
Cultural Differences to Know
The main consideration for families isn't safety but cultural differences:
- Children are seen as "public property"
- Locals may take photos without asking
- People might want to interact with foreign children
- Physical contact (like touching babies) is more common
What to Expect
- Overwhelming positive attention
- Friendly but sometimes unexpected interactions
- Safe public spaces for children
- Family-friendly facilities everywhere
Magda Sawyer
Our Personal Safety Experience
Living in Zurich has given us a high standard for safety and cleanliness, yet China consistently impressed us:
City Safety
- Major cities feel extremely safe
- Clean, well-maintained public spaces
- No unsafe areas around train stations
- Comfortable evening atmosphere
Public Trust
We've observed:
- People leaving belongings unattended
- Relaxed atmosphere in public spaces
- No tension in crowded areas
- Helpful attitudes from locals
Safety Tips for China Travel
Essential Preparations
- Communication
- Download translation apps
- Save emergency numbers
- Keep hotel address in Chinese
- Healthcare
- Get travel insurance
- Note nearby hospitals
- Bring basic medications
- Orientation
- Download maps app
- Download Chinese apps
Magda Sawyer
Ready to Plan Your Big China Adventure?
✈️ Book your flights
🏨 Find hotels
🚂 Reserve train tickets
🎫 Book activities
🚌 Book a tour
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to walk alone at night in Chinese cities?
A: Yes, Chinese cities are generally very safe at night, with well-lit streets and active evening life.
Q: Should I be worried about pickpockets?
A: While it's always good to be cautious, pickpocketing is much less common in China compared to many European cities.
Q: Is the healthcare system reliable?
A: Yes, especially in major cities. Healthcare is efficient and significantly more affordable than in the US.
Q: Are there any areas tourists should avoid?
A: Unlike many Western cities, Chinese urban areas generally don't have "unsafe" districts. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings.
Conclusion
China can be considered very safe for travel due to:
- Low crime levels
- Reliable infrastructure
- Good and affordable healthcare
- Helpful local population
- Strong community values
While you should always take general travel precautions, China consistently ranks as one of the safest countries for both solo and family travelers.
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