Chongqing 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.
"Good Places" Recommended by Taxi Drivers
Medium RiskScam Tactics
When a taxi driver recommends a specific hot pot restaurant—it’s often a ploy to earn kickbacks.
How to Avoid
Search on Dianping yourself and look for places with a rating of 4.5 or higher and reviews mentioning many locals.
Honest Advice
Authentic old-school hot pot is hidden away in residential buildings. Open Dianping and search for “old-school hot pot”—the more Chongqing dialect in the reviews, the better.
The "Express Lane" Scam at Hongya Cave
Low riskScam Tactics
People near Hongyadong are hawking “fast-track” or “skip-the-line” services. In reality, Hongyadong is free, and there is no such thing as a “fast track.”
How to Avoid
Enter directly through the main gate. If there’s a line, take the Daijia Alley walking path instead.
Honest Advice
Hongyadong is free—any entrance that charges you is a scam.
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.