China is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations due to its natural attractions, modern marvels, rich culture and history, unique cuisine, and great people. If you want to tour China, you can do so as a group or solo. Suppose you want to tour China; but is it really safe to travel there alone as a woman?
It’s safe to travel China alone as a woman because the Chinese government has put stringent safety measures in place to ensure everyone’s safety. Plus, many Chinese people are warm and welcoming to visitors. Still, it’s best to observe basic safety precautions, just like you would anywhere else.
In this article, I’ll tell you why it’s pretty safe to travel China alone as a woman. I’ll also give you tips to help you enhance your safety as you transverse the incredible country. Here we go.
Why It’s Pretty Safe to Travel China Alone as a Woman
China is among the world’s leading tourist destinations. For instance, in 2020, about 30 million tourists visited China
, making it the 11th most visited country that year. One of the things that makes China a popular tourist destination is its safety; the country has strived to ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and happy life.
Let’s take a look at why it’s safe to travel China alone as a woman:
China Has Strict Law Enforcement
China has put strict criminal penalties and a 99% conviction rate for lawbreakers to deter crime in the country. These measures help to reduce serious crime. Such strict crime management enables women (and men) to travel China alone without endangering their lives, so long as they observe basic safety measures.
China’s Police Force Is One of the Best in the World
China’s police force ranks among the strongest in the world. China police undergo innovative training methods and therefore have tactical skills that help them to combat crime successfully. You’ll find a heavy police presence in all parts of China as you tour the country.
The police officers here are usually extremely helpful and professional. If you feel threatened, look out for a police officer; if there’s not one around, you can call for help through 110.
China Has the Most Number of CCTVs Worldwide
According to comparitech, China has the most CCTVs in the world; about 540 million in 2021. China’s population is approximately 1.46 billion, which translates to about 372 CCTVs per 1000 people. There is a claim that the cameras can scan the faces of the Chinese population in just a few seconds.
So, as you travel China alone as a woman, it’s good to know that the CCTVs have your back.
The Chinese People Are Welcoming to Visitors
The Chinese people recognize visitors at a glance. Luckily, many of the locals are very welcoming and helpful. As you travel China alone as a woman, you might get a lot of stares from the local people. The staring is harmless; it’s usually simply out of curiosity.
In addition, women in China are entitled to live with freedom from fear. It’s unlikely that you’ll get catcalled or harassed as you go about your business. However, don’t be astonished if someone requests a photo with you.
Mostly, the request is harmless, but it’s best to look out for any mischief.
Safety Tips for Traveling China Alone as a Woman
No country in the world is 100% safe—even the safest country in the world is not free of crime. So, although China is pretty safe, you cannot rule out crime. For this reason, it’s best to stay alert as you transverse the country and interact with the people.
Below are tips to help you enhance your safety as you travel China alone as a woman:
Download a Text and Voice Translation App
The language barrier is one of many challenges you may encounter while traveling China solo. Being unable to communicate with the locals in Chinese has some major disadvantages:
- You can’t ask for directions or even understand when someone gives you directions. As a result, you could get lost, which can be dangerous.
- You cannot bargain for an item, and you could thus end up being ripped off by a few unscrupulous traders.
If you don’t understand Chinese, it’s best to download a text and voice translation app like Google Translate to help you.
Keep an Eye on Your Belongings
Taking care of your belongings is crucial, especially during peak travel hours, at the markets, or in queues. Someone could easily pickpocket you if you are not alert. Also, petty theft could occur in the following areas, among others:
- Sleeper trains
- Buses
- Train stations
- Tourist areas
Theft is a risk for travelers in any country, so be vigilant.
Stay Safe on the Road
Interestingly, crossing the road in China can pose a risk because the road rules are somewhat lax. Some drivers undertake or run red lights without a glance, and electric scooters hog the sidewalks. The risk of road transportation can be even higher in smaller towns with fewer or no traffic lights.
So, be extra careful when crossing roads, even at green pedestrian lights. With time, you’ll get used to the mayhem.
Beware of Scammers
When visiting a foreign country, it’s good to be aware of tourist scams. In China, once in a while, you may encounter a tourist scam, especially in the bigger cities. You could end up losing money to scammers.
Below are examples of scams you may encounter while traveling China alone as a woman:
- Tea scam: A young Chinese man asks you to teach him English; he takes you to a coffee shop. The coffee shop later gives you an outrageous bill you must pay before they allow you to leave.
- Art gallery scam: A Chinese person requests you to enter an art gallery. You may buy fake prints or paintings cheaply, thinking they are original works.
Avoid Unlicensed Taxi Drivers
In some of the vast China cities, you may encounter unlicensed taxi drivers. Some drivers could overcharge or drop you in an unfamiliar or risky area. As a general rule, it’s best to hail a licensed taxi from designated taxi ranks to avoid any dangerous or costly interactions.
As another popular destination in Asia, Dubai can also be a safe choice for women to travel alone. I’ve written a comprehensive guide on how you can stay safe if you visit the city. Click on the link to learn more. [Is Dubai Safe for Solo Female Tourists?]
Conclusion
China is a great tourist destination for groups or solo travelers. It’s pretty safe to travel China alone as a woman; you can explore the rich countryside and the big cities. However, with a population of more than one billion, China can’t be 100% safe to travel alone or even with a group.
It’s best to stay alert as you transverse China, just as you would when traveling in the safest place on earth. In addition, obey the laws of the land. Always remember that the police are available should you need assistance.