China Travel 2025: Essential Safety Tips and Key Advisories for US Travelers Navigating Legal and Political Complexities

Listeners considering travel to China should be aware that the United States State Department currently classifies China with a Level 2 travel advisory, urging travelers to exercise increased caution due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including the possibility of exit bans. The advisory highlights that officials can impose exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries without fair or transparent legal process. There have been instances where foreigners, including businesspeople, academics, journalists, and relatives of Chinese citizens involved in legal disputes, have faced interrogation, detention, or expulsion under national security laws in China, even when their cases have been unrelated to any criminal activity. The same level of caution is advised for travel to Hong Kong due to similar concerns about the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, while travel to Macau should be reconsidered due to the limited ability of consular services and the same kinds of legal risks, especially for those with existing or potential legal disputes, or those critical of Chinese policy, particularly regarding issues in Tibet and Xinjiang, where additional restrictions may apply according to the U.S. State Department.

Travelers should also pay attention to practical safety tips. According to travel safety advice, China's public transportation, such as subways and bullet trains, is considered safe and efficient, with the main risks being pickpocketing in crowded areas. Tourists are advised to avoid unlicensed taxis, use official rideshare services, keep their personal belongings secure, and stay alert for scams, especially in tourist hotspots. Food safety in cities is generally good, but it's best to stick to reputable restaurants and drink bottled water. Some regions, particularly Tibet and Xinjiang, can pose higher travel risks due to political sensitivities or restrictions, so checking for region-specific advisories is recommended. Internet access is highly regulated within China—many international websites are blocked, and travelers should be prepared to use a VPN if they wish to access certain services, always following local laws.

Recent geopolitical tensions between China and the United States have led to reciprocal travel advisories. In April 2025, China issued an official warning for its citizens to carefully assess the risks before traveling to the United States, citing trade disputes and perceptions of domestic security issues. China has also cautioned its students regarding study in the U.S., referencing new American legislative restrictions on academic partnerships with Chinese institutions. The escalation in tariffs and diplomatic rhetoric has increased uncertainty for travelers in both directions, though so far there are no broad restrictions on tourist activity within China for Americans.

Overall, China remains a generally safe and welcoming destination for international visitors, but travelers should take standard precautions and stay informed of any changes in advisories or local laws. Staying connected with your embassy, maintaining awareness of current events, and reviewing official government travel resources before and during your trip can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience.