
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Beijing, China
1. Tea House Scam
This scam involves locals inviting tourists to a tea ceremony, resulting in exorbitant prices. Avoid it by politely declining unsolicited invitations. Always check prices before choosing a tea house.
- Invitation: Individuals who approach tourists and invite them should be approached with caution.
- Location: Be particularly wary near popular tourist areas, such as Wangfujing or Tiananmen Square.
- Prevention: Only attend tea houses that are recommended by trusted sources or guides.
2. Art Student Exhibition Scam
Some scammers pose as art students trying to lure you to buy overpriced art. Avoid entering unknown galleries without prior research or recommendation. Be cautious of anyone approaching you near art districts.
- Timing: They often target tourists during art exhibition peak times or weekends.
- Authenticity: Always ask for credentials or additional information.
- Price Check: Compare prices with other sources to ensure they're reasonable.
3. Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxi drivers might overcharge tourists using a faulty meter or by taking longer routes. Use Didi or official taxis with working meters for commuting. Always ensure the taxi has a visible license.
- App Use: Download a reliable taxi app to prevent overcharges.
- Route: Familiarize yourself with the general route in advance.
- Identification: Ensure that the taxi is licensed with proper identification.
4. Counterfeit Products
Fake goods like electronics, clothing, or accessories might be sold as genuine. Purchase items from official or reputable stores, and be suspicious of deals that seem too good to be true. Check for authorized labels and warranties where applicable.
- Verification: Request a receipt or warranty for expensive purchases.
- Brand Stores: Prefer purchases from official brand outlets.
- Analysis: Be cautious about the quality; genuine items will typically not be hugely discounted.
5. Great Wall Tour Scams
Some tours promise trips to the Great Wall but take you to less impressive sections or questionable shopping stops. Book tours through reputable agencies or your hotel. Verify the itinerary in advance to align with your expectations.
- Agency Check: Ensure the tour company has good reviews.
- Itinerary: Confirm you'll visit popular sections like Mutianyu or Badaling.
- Booking: Book in advance and through trustworthy channels.
6. Fake Police Officers
Scammers may pose as police officers demanding your passport or money. Always ask for identification, and verify with local authorities or your embassy. Never hand over documents or money without being sure.
- Verification: Be confident, ask for identification and call the local police if unsure.
- Embassy Contact: Keep your embassy's contact information handy.
- Documents: Carry photocopies, not originals, whenever possible.
7. Pickpocketing
This is common in crowded places like public transport and tourist spots. Keep your valuables secure in front pockets or use anti-theft bags. Stay vigilant and be wary of distractions.
- Bag Type: Use bags with zippers and keep them close to your body.
- Awareness: Remain attentive in crowded areas and secure your belongings.
- Avoidance: If someone is suspiciously trying to distract you, be cautious.
8. Currency Exchange Scams
Some places offer unfavorable rates or give counterfeit currency. Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange points. Always count and verify the money received.
- Official Venue: Use licensed and reputable currency exchange locations.
- Counting: Count the money before leaving the counter.
- Receipt: Ask for a transaction receipt for verification.
9. Restaurant Overcharging
Tourists might be charged more than locals or for unordered items. Always ask for a menu with prices before ordering and verify the bill. Choose restaurants recommended by trustworthy sources.
- Printed Menu: Insist on a menu that clearly lists prices.
- Local Advice: Seek restaurant recommendations from locals or hotels.
- Verification: Double-check your bill and question questionable charges.
10. Ticket Scam at Tourist Sites
Fake tickets can be sold outside tourist attractions like the Forbidden City. Only buy tickets from official ticket counters or trusted online platforms. Validate tickets' authenticity before making a purchase.
- Purchase Point: Always use official ticket booths for purchases.
- Online Checking: Confirm ticket authenticity when buying online.
- Reputable Guides: If using a guide, ensure they're legitimate.
11. Fake Souvenir Scam
Souvenirs sold as handmade or authentic may actually be mass-produced and low-quality. Buy from well-known or government-approved shops to ensure authenticity. Research typical crafts and the expected quality beforehand.
- Purchase Spot: Prefer established locations rather than street vendors.
- Quality Check: Inspect items closely for any signs of poor craftsmanship.
- Receipt Request: Always get a receipt as proof of purchase.
12. Overcharging on Rickshaw Rides
Rickshaw drivers might demand more money than agreed upon after the ride. Always agree on the fare before the ride starts and consider using apps for booking rickshaws. Insist upon the agreed price at the destination.
- Price Agreement: Negotiate and finalize the price beforehand.
- App Use: Whenever possible, use travel apps for clear pricing.
- Documentation: Ensure acknowledgment of the agreed price by both parties.
13. Escort Offers
Individuals offering escort services might target tourists for scams, leading to dangerous situations. Politely decline any such offers and avoid engaging. Keep interactions professional in nightclubs and bars.
- Decline Offers: Be firm and polite in refusal.
- Location Choice: Choose clubs and bars known for their safety.
- Control: Avoid revealing personal or financial information.
14. Cheap Transportation Offers
Low-cost transportation might lead you to unauthorized taxis or vans which can be dangerous. Stick to official services or those recommended by your hotel. Release from any vehicle if it feels suspicious or unsafe.
- Service Confirmation: Verify transportation legitimacy through research or reference.
- Hotel Coordination: Rely on hotel-arranged transport options.
- Awareness: If it feels wrong, trust your instincts.
15. Temple Donations
Fake monks may ask for donations at popular temples or on the streets. Politely decline and make donations only inside the temple if you wish. Do research to know which temples have real monks.
- Research: Confirm monastery policies on donations.
- Location: Donate only at official temple charity points.
- Presence: Be cautious of monks outside typical temple areas.
16. Fake Tour Guides
Impersonators might approach offering guided tours but with little knowledge or authenticity. Use verified guide services booked through reputable platforms. Dual-check their certifications and reviews.
- Certification Check: Always request to see the guide’s credentials.
- Booking Platform: Use recommended tour operator services.
- Review Reading: Look for reviews or testimonials as proof of authenticity.
17. Fake Charities
People may solicit funds for fake charities claiming it’s for a noble cause. Do not donate without verifying the authenticity of the charity. Always research the charity prior to donating.
- Charity Check: Validate through registered databases.
- Request Verification: Ask for the charity's identification.
- Secure Donation: Donate through official charity websites if interested.
18. Beggars with Fake Disabilities
Some beggars will feign disabilities to solicit sympathy and money. Be cautious, as this can be a scam to tug at your heartstrings. If you wish to help, contribute to recognized organizations.
- Observation: Be mindful of repeated performances of the same act.
- Contribution Channel: Opt to donate through vetted channels.
- Assessment: Assess authenticity before engaging.
19. Fake Electronics
Vendors might sell counterfeit electronics at high prices. Purchase electronics from authorized retailers only and verify warranties. Check device performance and reviews before purchasing.
- Store Legitimacy: Buy electronics from trustworthy shops.
- Warranty Documentation: Ensure the offering of a valid warranty.
- Review Consultation: Check product reviews online before buying.
20. Hotel Booking Scam
Scammers may advertise fake hotel listings preying on tourists. Use renowned booking sites or book directly with the hotel. Confirm hotel existence and reservation prior to travel.
- Verification: Check for hotel contact details and reviews online.
- Booking Platform: Use established and credible booking websites.
- Communication: Confirm reservation directly with the hotel to avoid issues.