China is generally considered very safe for both residents and tourists, particularly regarding violent crime.
* **Crime Overview:** Violent crime rates are extremely low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas or transit hubs, occurs but has decreased significantly with the shift to a cashless society and widespread security cameras (the "Skynet" system). * **Emergency Numbers:** * Police: 110 * Ambulance: 120 * Fire: 119 * Traffic Accidents: 122 * **Safety Tips for Visitors:** * Beware of the "Tea House" or "Art Student" scams in major tourist areas (like Beijing's Wangfujing or Shanghai's Nanjing Road), where friendly locals invite tourists to a tea ceremony or art show that ends with an exorbitant bill. * Traffic can be chaotic; pedestrians should exercise caution even when they have the right of way, particularly regarding silent electric scooters. * Keep physical passports or valid ID on your person, as routine checks at hotels, train stations, and tourist sites are mandatory.