Guangzhou 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.
High-Priced Tickets for Pearl River Night Cruises
Medium RiskScam Tactics
Luxury cruise tickets for the Pearl River night tour cost over 200 yuan, but the river views are exactly the same as those from the 68-yuan standard boats. Salespeople at the pier will exaggerate the “luxury experience.”
How to Avoid
Take the regular ferry from Tianzi Pier for 68 yuan, or ride the Haizhu tram for 2 yuan to see the night view.
Honest Advice
The “luxury cruise” on the Pearl River just comes with a buffet (which is just okay). Take the 2-yuan tram and stroll through Huacheng Square to watch the Guangzhou Tower light show—it’s a better experience and practically free.
Electronic product scams at Gangding Computer City
High RiskScam Tactics
"Cheap" electronics sold to tourists at the Gangding Computer Market in Tianhe—refurbished devices passed off as brand-new, low-spec models passed off as high-spec, and knockoffs passed off as genuine products.
How to Avoid
If you’re not familiar with electronics, don’t buy them at the Computer City. Go to JD.com or official brand stores instead.
Honest Advice
Gangding Computer City is a minefield. Foreign tourists should buy electronics at brand-name stores in Zhengjia Plaza or Taikoo Hui—they’re a bit pricier but offer peace of mind.
The "Time-Honored Brands" Trap on Shangxiajiu Street
Low riskScam Tactics
Most of the “century-old brands” on Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street are no longer the original shops—they’re heavily commercialized, with inflated prices and mediocre food.
How to Avoid
Authentic local cuisine can be found on Xihua Road, Tongfu Road, and Baoye Road. Shangxiajiu is best for strolling and taking photos.
Honest Advice
Locals in Guangzhou haven’t been eating at Shangxiajiu for a long time. If you want to experience authentic Guangzhou flavors, head to Xihua Road—a single street where you can sample all the Michelin-recommended dishes.
Unlicensed Taxis at the Airport/Train Station
Medium RiskScam Tactics
At the arrival halls of Baiyun Airport and Guangzhou South Railway Station, unlicensed taxi drivers solicit passengers; they do not use meters and arbitrarily inflate fares.
How to Avoid
Use Didi to book a ride, or wait in line at an official taxi stand. The Guangzhou Metro connects to the airport and train station, making it more convenient.
Honest Advice
Line 3 goes directly to Baiyun Airport, and Line 2 goes to Guangzhou South Station—it’s both fast and affordable, so there’s really no need to take a taxi.
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.