Is Beijing safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for China

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates China at Level 3 - Reconsider Travel, and this advisory applies at the country level rather than specifically to Beijing.
• UK FCDO guidance notes a high global threat of terrorism affecting British nationals and advises staying alert in places visited by foreigners, particularly during national holidays and at transport hubs.
• Chinese national security laws are broadly written, and the guidance warns that foreign nationals can be detained without having intended to break the law, including for activity carried out outside mainland China.
• Travelers should be cautious of scams such as the tea tasting or massage scam, where friendly strangers lead visitors to an establishment that then demands a large fee, sometimes followed by threats or fraud.
• Drink spiking and sexual assault are described as rare but possible, and solo women or those traveling with female friends are advised to take extra care and never leave drinks unattended.
• Carrying a passport at all times is advised, since police carry out random ID checks and printed copies are not accepted.
• Photography, contact with ethnic minority groups, or travel near restricted military areas can attract extra scrutiny from authorities, especially in sensitive regions.