Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Yan’an, Shaanxi, China

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Overpriced local food restaurants near popular tourist sites may offer low quality or inflated prices.

Location: Avoid restaurants located near main attractions, they are often pricier
Reviews: Check online reviews before dining to ensure quality and fair pricing
Price Comparison: Compare prices with local establishments away from the tourist crowd for a better deal

Unlicensed tour guides may overcharge or lead you to scammy stores.

Licensing: Ensure your guide is officially licensed by the Yan'an Tourism Bureau
Recommendation: Book guided tours through reputable travel agencies to avoid unlicensed guides
Price Comparison: Compare guide prices with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair fee

Buying counterfeit souvenirs can be common in Yan'an. Look out for poor quality or cheap prices.

Authenticity Marks: Look for authenticity marks on souvenirs to ensure they are genuine
Pricing: Counterfeit items are usually priced lower than authentic ones
Location: Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors or non-official shops, buy from reputable stores instead

Some taxi drivers may refuse to use meters or overcharge unsuspecting tourists.

Meter Usage: Insist on using the meter during your ride
Prepaid Taxis: Use prepaid taxis for peace of mind and avoid disputes over fares
Knowledgeable Drivers: Choose drivers who are knowledgeable about the city to avoid getting lost or scammed

Some accommodations in Yan'an may have substandard service or unreasonable prices.

Online Reviews: Check online reviews for the accommodation before booking
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other accommodations in the area to ensure fairness
Location: Choose accommodations located near main attractions for convenience and safety

Unscrupulous sellers may overcharge or provide low-quality SIM cards.

Official Retailers: Buy SIM cards from official retailers like telecom companies
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair fee
Network Coverage: Check network coverage in the areas you plan to visit before purchasing a SIM card

Some money exchange shops may offer unfavorable exchange rates or charge hidden fees.

Reputable Shops: Exchange money at reputable banks or authorized exchange centers
Comparison: Compare exchange rates with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair deal
Location: Exchange money in busy, well-populated areas to avoid potential scams

ATMs may have skimmers or charge hidden fees.

Secure ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable stores
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers
Transaction Fees: Check with your bank for any foreign transaction fees before using an ATM

Fraudulent ticket sellers may overcharge or provide invalid tickets.

Official Sellers: Buy transportation tickets from official sellers at stations
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair fee
Check Ticket Validity: Inspect your ticket for validity before boarding transportation

Some tourist buses may overcharge or take longer routes to increase fares.

Reputable Companies: Book tours with reputable companies and check for customer reviews
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair fee
Route Check: Inquire about the route before boarding the bus to avoid longer, more expensive trips

Some street food vendors may serve poor quality or unsafe food.

Busy Stalls: Choose busy, well-attended stalls with a good reputation
Cleanliness: Ensure the food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment
Customer Reviews: Check online reviews for the vendor before purchasing street food

Some bicycle rental shops may charge hidden fees or provide damaged bikes.

Reputable Shops: Rent bicycles from reputable shops with good reviews
Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the bike before renting to ensure it's in good condition
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other rental shops for a fair fee

Some hotels may charge hidden fees or provide substandard rooms.

Reputable Hotels: Book rooms at reputable hotels with good reviews
Room Inspection: Inspect the room upon arrival for any damages or issues
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other hotels in the area for a fair deal

Some ticket sellers may overcharge or provide invalid tickets.

Official Sellers: Buy attraction tickets from official sellers at the entrance
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or reliable sources for a fair fee
Check Ticket Validity: Inspect your ticket for validity before entering the attraction

Some fishermen may offer to catch a large fish for a fee but provide a small one.