Shanghai Mistakes & Scams Guide
Honest advice to help you dodge the common traps and travel safely.
Why This Page Matters
China is very safe for visitors — violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. What to watch for is overcharging, tourist traps, and unnecessary hassle. Knowing these scams can help you save money, time, and stress.
The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel Scam
Medium RiskHow the Scam Works
For 50 yuan, you just ride in a small car through a tunnel lit up with lights—you can’t see a thing. It’s known as Shanghai’s most rip-off “attraction.”
How to Avoid
Ignore all sales pitches for the sightseeing tunnel. If you want to see the river view, take the 2-yuan Dongjin Line ferry.
Real Advice
This “attraction” has survived to this day solely by scamming first-time visitors. Taking the 2-yuan ferry to see the river view is a hundred times better.
Shanghai Tea House/Bar Scams
High RiskHow the Scam Works
A stranger strikes up a conversation and invites you to a “great bar nearby”; after a few drinks, you’re hit with a bill for several thousand yuan.
How to Avoid
Don’t accept invitations from strangers. Pick a bar yourself on Dazhong Dianping before heading out.
Real Advice
For a first Tinder date, meet at a Starbucks or a mall—it’s safe and transparent.
Fake Taxis
Medium RiskHow the Scam Works
People holding “Taxi” signs at airport arrival gates are soliciting passengers but drive unlicensed taxis.
How to Avoid
Only use Didi or wait in line at official taxi stands.
Real Advice
You can completely avoid this by using the Didi app—prices are transparent, and your location is tracked via GPS.
China Is Very Safe
Despite the warnings above, remember: China has some of the lowest violent-crime rates in the world, and crime against foreigners is extremely rare. What's listed is mostly about overcharging and inconvenience — not danger. Use basic common sense, trust your instincts, and you'll have a wonderful, safe trip.