Is Beijing a Safe City?

When you are deciding to move to a great city in the other corner of the world, many questions come up in your mind, one of them is about safety. Let’s find out how safe Beijing is.

Violent Crime is relatively low:

About violent crime, Beijing is likely one of the safer capital city in the whole world. You can walk alone in the streets and have taxis late at night alone. You will not felt insecure in any way and not have any problem. But walking alone around the bar areas late at night is not safe for women. Personally, I never felt pretty unsafe in the city. 

Traffic is Crazy:

While there are traffic rules, but nobody looks to follow them much. Unlike several western countries, where the most susceptible has more safety and generally the main concern, in Beijing, the pedestrian is considered the lowermost on the ground. 

When just the green light is on, you can’t cross the street without waiting for cars that turn around or running. The drivers normally expect the walker to wait for them. So always be careful while crossing the street, and keep in mind that you have to wait. Carefully look in all ways when crossing the road. 

Electric scooters are another possible danger that runs by without making noise. At night they frequently drive without lights on to save battery life. So you have to be careful about your safety. 

Politics in Beijing:

It is a serious kind of topic. A few days back, there was a very heated oratory between the Japanese and Chinese over a disputed landmass, and several Japanese were attacked or turn away from. Several cars were smashed, or many people get stuck in their homes. 

At the same time, Americans are respected and hated. European and Germans tend to be respected more warmly. Many Chinese people are pleased with their nation and hatred alleged enemies. 

It is suggested to get register with the State Department for their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. They will provide you latest updates about any emergency or distress for your safety.

Beware of minor Crime:

However, you may find petty crimes happen in the city, as anywhere in the world. Some swindles are specially targeted at tourists and take place mostly around the common tourist places of interest. 

Pick-pocketing is also common in crowded places. While I never experience any such issue myself, but my friends had experience things stolen. One of my friends had her phone stolen while standing at a busy subway.

Environmental threats are everywhere:

Beijing has been found perilous in concerns about environmental conditions. Water, air, and food have been considered hazardous for health. You can’t drink the tap water without filtering or boiling. Remember to wash the fruits and vegetables well before eating. 

Overall, I found Beijing a pretty safe city to live in.