The capital of the world’s most populous country, the People’s Republic of China, is Beijing, with a population of over 21 million people.
Beijing is the political, economic and cultural center of the country.
Besides being extremely attractive to tourists because the most visited parts of the Great Wall of China are located here, Beijing has many other important landmarks such as Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, the Great Hall of the People, the Museum of the Chinese Revolution and the Forbidden City.
Another notable and well-known sight is the Ming Dynasty City Wall Site Park which dates back to the medieval period.
The most important thing is that almost all parts of the city are considered safe for tourists.
Warnings and dangers in Beijing
Overall risk: Medium
While in Beijing, travelers should pay special attention to the people around them to avoid becoming victims of petty crime. As in any other large and populous city, thieves are common, so avoid going to isolated areas and displaying your valuables in public. There is very little risk of more serious crimes against tourists in Beijing.
Transport and taxi risk: Medium
Taxi use is that Beijing can make you a victim as many taxi drivers tend to overcharge or rob the passenger. Unlicensed and unmetered taxis should not be taken into consideration as there have been incidents of sexual assault when traveling alone in a taxi at night. The best solution is to use public transportation, which is cheap and available.
Pickpocket Risk: High
As long as you remain vigilant about your belongings, you will not become an easy prey for trespassers. Tourists are very attractive because of their passports, laptops, cell phones, bags and wallets. Major tourist sites are areas where thieves and pickpockets usually work.
Natural disaster risk: Medium
Air pollution, typhoons, and earthquakes are possible natural disasters in Beijing. If you happen to be there during any of these incidents, you should follow the advice of the local authorities.
Risk of assault: Low
There are very rare reports of serious crimes committed against foreigners, so you can feel safe in terms of kidnapping and robbery. However, these types of incidents cannot be predicted, so tourists should remain vigilant.
Terrorism risk: Low
The possibility of terrorist attacks in China is at a low level, but due to previous attacks, this type of incident may occur. Tourists may not be the direct target, but attacks usually occur during holidays or in crowded places, which may affect tourists.
Fraud risk: High
The risk of fraud is very common in Beijing and is increasing even more. The problem of counterfeit money is becoming serious as there have been reports of receiving a counterfeit note even from ATMs. Travelers should check them carefully before accepting notes as banks do not accept them.
Risk of female travellers: Low
As long as female travelers follow safety precautions and practice common sense while in Beijing, there is no need for any fear or panic. Beijing is not dangerous for women, even if they are traveling alone.
So… How safe is Beijing really?
Beijing is a city where you can see the entire historical transformation of China.
The Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, the Ming Tombs and parts of the Great Wall are just some of the many tourist attractions.
However, the huge population combined with the large number of tourists leads to various types of crime and law-breaking.
Drug trafficking, pickpocketing and theft are on the rise.
However, as long as travelers pay extra attention to tourist sites and crowded streets, there is no danger of becoming a victim.
Useful information
Seen
Regarding visas, there are different rules in China. You need to get a visa before you arrive and it can be obtained at the Chinese embassy. However, for those travelers who are just in transit in China, there is the option to enter without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months when you enter China.
Currency
China is still a country where cash is the basic means of payment and its currency is called yuan or renminbi. Do not rely only on your credit card, as many services do not accept it. ATMs are only available in major cities and it is not possible to change Scottish or Northern Irish banknotes.
Weather
The continental climate influenced by monsoons is characterized by hot summers and cold winters. There is a rainy season in Beijing, which lasts from February to September and the typhoon season, from May to November. The best time to visit Beijing is September and October, during autumn.
Airports
You can come to Beijing via Beijing Capital International Airport which is located 26 km from the city center. It is the second busiest airport in the world and is used for both domestic and foreign travel. Another is Nanyuan Airport, which is 13 km from the Forbidden City, but it is only used by China United Airlines for domestic flights.
Travel insurance
The decision to travel abroad is your choice and you are responsible for your safety, so you should have a travel insurance policy when you arrive in China. It should include medical care in case of illness or accident and coverage for lost or stolen baggage.
