Hangzhou Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
Real Advice to Help You Avoid Common Travel Pitfalls and Have a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
Why This Page Is Important
China is very safe for tourists—violent crimes against foreigners are extremely rare. What you really need to watch out for are overpricing, tourist scams, and unnecessary hassles. Understanding these common scams and pitfalls can help you save money, time, and stress.
"Longjing Tea" sold on the street
Medium RiskScam Tactics
Along the shores of West Lake and on the streets of Longjing Village, vendors hawk “authentic Longjing tea,” but the prices are inflated and the tea is often counterfeit, sourced from other regions.
How to Avoid
Purchase tea at the China Tea Museum, from the homes of certified tea farmers in Longjing Village, or at large tea markets.
Honest Advice
Authentic West Lake Longjing tea is produced in limited quantities and isn’t cheap. The “Longjing” sold on the street for a few dozen yuan a can is almost certainly counterfeit. You can sample it for free at tea farmers’ homes.
Private Boat Tours on West Lake
Low riskScam Tactics
Along the shores of West Lake, people solicit customers for private boat tours, which are expensive and lack safety guarantees.
How to Avoid
Buy tickets only at the official cruise pier, or take the 5-yuan ferry.
Honest Advice
For just 5 yuan, the West Lake public ferry shuttles you between various scenic spots—it’s both affordable and safe.
China Is Very Safe
Despite the warnings listed above, please remember: China has one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the world, and crimes targeting foreigners are extremely rare. The reminders listed above primarily concern being overcharged and inconveniences—not danger. Use basic common sense, trust your instincts, and you’re sure to have a wonderful and safe trip.