Shanghai Hongqiao International
Airport

International bank cards are accepted at some hotels, larger chain stores, and major transport hubs, but mobile payments dominate daily transactions. Many small shops, restaurants, taxis, and local services commonly prefer or rely on Alipay or WeChat Pay, so visitors should prepare a workable mobile payment option and also carry some cash.

China is commonly considered fairly safe for visitors in terms of street crime, especially in well traveled urban areas. The main practical risks for tourists are payment difficulties, transport confusion, internet access limits, scams in tourist zones, road safety, and rules around registration, visas, and restricted areas.

• Use only licensed taxis or established ride hailing apps, and confirm the destination on the map before departure.
• Carry your hotel name and destination addresses in Chinese to show drivers or station staff.
• Watch for common tourist scams in busy sightseeing areas, such as tea ceremony invitations, art student approaches, or inflated taxi fares.
• Keep your passport and visa documents secure, and check whether your accommodation handles the required registration with local authorities.
• Follow local rules carefully at stations, government buildings, border areas, and when photographing sensitive sites.

• Greet people politely and use a calm tone.
• Avoid causing public embarrassment or direct confrontation where possible.
• Wait to be seated or guided in more formal restaurants.
• Use serving utensils if provided when sharing dishes.
• Offer and receive business cards or documents respectfully, commonly with both hands.