Is it safe to live in China? As someone who is from the West, I view China as a normal country with its own pros and cons, including Chinese citizens and Chinese customs and the potential for culture shock. Western criticism of China is often unrelatable, especially given the influence of Western social media.
In this post, you will see that I have changed my views on China, with its vast population of over a billion people, China plays a significant role on the world stage and continues to shape global trends and dynamics.
Is it safe to travel to China in 2024?
Travel in China as a U.S. citizen in 2024 is generally safe. The authoritarian nature of the government results in little to no street crime.
However, it’s crucial to avoid insulting the government online or in-person to prevent detention. While some may fear government detention, China typically doesn’t detain random foreign travelers.
Despite these considerations, thousands of travelers and numerous expats who have settled in various cities to teach English, travel in China without encountering any issues.
Are you considering a first solo travel trip to China? Dispel the misconception that China is unsafe and that it is safe as long as one avoids reckless behavior.
During holidays, travelers must be mindful of crowds and purchase transport tickets in advance, especially during the Chinese New Year (February), Labor Day (May 1st – May 5th), and National Day (Oct. 1st – Oct. 7th), when tickets sell out quickly.
China offers cheap and adequate accommodations, and it is recommended to spend a week in either the city of Beijing or Shanghai, traveling in Shanghai also has possible day trips to Suzhou and Hangzhou. It is also advised to get a visa as soon as possible, as the visa process can sometimes be time-consuming.
Environmental safety
Travelers should be aware of air pollution and the pollution levels in certain cities and take necessary precautions. Try to avoid winter when the air pollution is worse than other time over the year if you plan to visit Beijing or Shanghai, check the best time to visit Shanghai. The spring and the fall are the best seasons to visit Shanghai, while the sandstorm will affect Beijing’s environment in Spring.
Language Barrier
It can be helpful in major tourist areas if you speak English, but learning a few Chinese words can also help overcome the language barrier and enhance the travel experience. Try these language translation apps that will smooth your stay in China. Many foreigners opt to stay for a few months in China, particularly in the country’s larger cities.
City Safety
Life in China is perceived as safer than in the U.S. due to a combination of strict enforcement and cultural norms. Surveillance cameras are ubiquitous in China, deterring crime, while a collectivist mindset encourages rule-following and discourages actions that disrupt harmony.
In contrast, the U.S. is more individualistic, with people often prioritizing personal freedom, even if it potentially harms others.
While China may lack certain freedoms, the freedom to feel safe, even when walking alone at night, is highly valued. This sense of safety existed even before the widespread use of surveillance cameras, which have further reduced petty crime.
Shanghai is universally acknowledged as the safest city globally, a sentiment I largely concur with. Instances of violent crime are exceedingly rare, and one feels secure regardless of location or time within the city. Living in large cities like Shanghai provides residents with a sense of security and comfort that is unmatched in many parts of the world.
Life in China compared to life in the U.S.
Living in China, particularly in major cities like Shanghai, is advanced and vibrant, with a futuristic infrastructure and a lively professional atmosphere. As an American who has worked extensively in China, encourage others to visit or connect with locals to gain a firsthand perspective.
Beijing is another big city in China and the capital of China. Exploring cultural landmarks like the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the Great Wall can deepen your appreciation for China’s rich history and heritage.
Additionally, interacting with foreigners living in China can offer diverse perspectives and enrich your understanding of the country’s dynamic social landscape.
Living costs in China vary depending on the city, but generally, expenses are lower compared to Western countries. It’s possible to save money while living in China, especially if one is mindful of spending habits.
Despite some challenges, many foreign workers living in China find that the good life offers many benefits, such as affordable healthcare and a vibrant social scene, especially in major cities where you’ll find communities of most expats.
Transportation Safety
Road safety is particularly problematic, with drivers often disregarding traffic rules, failing to yield, and not stopping at junctions. Taxi drivers can be aggressive, especially during rush hour, which adds to the chaos on the roads.
However, China boasts an extensive network of bullet trains, providing efficient and comfortable transportation between cities. Public transportation in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing is well-developed and offers a safe and convenient way to navigate the urban landscape.
China is recognized as one of the safest countries globally, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety. Foreigners travelling from over countries often find China to be a welcoming and secure destination. China is a bustling hub where you can encounter a million people from diverse backgrounds everyday.
Food Safety
Food options in China are diverse, ranging from Chinese cuisine to foreign food. However, personal space may be limited in crowded areas, and individuals may experience culture shock due to cultural differences. Additionally, while Chinese cuisine is abundant, access to Western food may be limited in some areas.
Food safety in China is concerning, as highlighted by my mother’s personal experience, who managed a relatively upscale restaurant. She advised me to steer clear of dining out or ordering takeout due to the frequent lack of cleanliness in restaurant kitchens, which are often poorly maintained and unsanitary.
Internet Safety
It is also recommended to use a virtual private network to access websites and apps that may be restricted in China. During, for example, a national holiday, travel and accommodation may be more challenging due to increased demand from both locals and tourists.
Bottom line: what motivated you to move to China?
I moved to China because I wanted to experience the country firsthand and the financial benefits it offered. As a foreign employee, I was not swayed by the negative news about China.
I was also attracted by the higher salary they could earn in China as a licensed teacher, compared to my home country. It frustrates me that people criticize China without having visited the country themselves, emphasizing the importance of personal experience over hearsay.
Although the question “Is it safe to live in China?” sticks at the back of my head, living in one of China’s major cities allows me to immerse myself in the vibrant Chinese culture and learn Chinese words firsthand.
Making local friends can further enrich your understanding of the Chinese people and their customs and traditions.
Securing a new apartment in these cities may offer a sense of stability and belonging, providing a comfortable living space amidst the adventures of one of the many expats in China.
While you can appreciate the hustle and bustle of the city life, you can also find solace in the quieter pace of life in a few cities, where you could truly appreciate the beauty of China’s landscapes.
