General Information » Essential Info » Crime & Safety

In comparison to most of the world’s capital cities, Beijing is a safe place with a low (but growing) crime rate. In particular, juvenile crime is on the rise, with government statistics suggesting a jump of 33% between 2003 and 2006. These crimes are usually petty ones, like pickpocketing, which is common in Beijing’s tourist areas.

Isolated attacks on foreign females, including two murders in 2006, have prompted advice for women not to walk alone in empty streets after dark and to always use reputable taxi companies. The year 2006 also saw some fights between groups of local and foreign men in popular nightlife areas, all involving too much alcohol and testosterone. Drugs are prevalent, though harsh sentences for those caught dealing and using are strictly enforced.

Fraud is something that a foreigner is far more likely to encounter. Counterfeit money is common, and sometimes used by taxi drivers as change. Avoid exchanging money on the black market; not only are you likely to be given fake notes, but you also run the risk of being charged with breaking exchange laws.