Shanghai 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.

The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel Scam

Medium Risk

Scam Tactics

50 yuan Just a ride through the light tunnel in a small car—you can’t see a thing. It’s known as Shanghai’s most “rip-off” attraction.

How to Avoid

Ignore all sales pitches in the tourist tunnels. To see the river view, take the 2-yuan Dongjin Line ferry.

Honest Advice

This tourist spot has survived this long solely by ripping off first-time visitors. Taking the 2-yuan ferry offers a view of the river that’s a hundred times better.

Shanghai Tea Scams/Bar Scams

High Risk

Scam Tactics

A stranger strikes up a conversation and invites you to a “great bar nearby”; after a few drinks, you’re presented with a bill for several thousand yuan.

How to Avoid

Do not accept invitations from strangers. Choose a bar yourself on Dazhong Dianping before going.

Honest Advice

For a first date with someone from Tinder, meet at Starbucks or a mall—it’s safe and straightforward.

Fake taxi

Medium Risk

Scam Tactics

People holding “Taxi” signs solicit passengers at the airport arrivals hall, but they are operating unlicensed taxis.

How to Avoid

Use only Didi or wait in line at official taxi stands.

Honest Advice

Using the Didi app completely eliminates these risks—prices are transparent, and your route is tracked via GPS.

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.