Want to Visit China? Here Are 5 things you definitely shouldn’t do in China

Thinking of visiting China? Well, before you pack your bags and grab your selfie stick, let’s get one thing straight: there are a few big no-no’s you should be aware of. Because let’s face it, getting kicked out of a country is probably not on your bucket list, right? So, buckle up and learn the 5 things you definitely shouldn’t do in China—unless you want to end up on the wrong side of a very confusing international incident.

1. Internet Policing

Ready to chat on WeChat in China? Well, before you start talking about your wild weekend plans or sending funny memes, let’s get one thing straight: avoid making any jokes about Winnie-the-Pooh. Seriously. The Chinese government has a weird obsession with the honey-loving bear, because for some bizarre reason, they think he looks a little too much like Xi Jinping. And if you’re not careful, the next thing you know, the police will be knocking on your door, inviting you to ‘have some tea’ (喝茶 hē chá)—which, by the way, isn’t a casual hangout. It’s a nice way of saying 'we’ll be asking you a few questions'… and things might get uncomfortable real fast. Oh, and in case you didn’t know, China has an entire squad of internet police (网警 wǎng jǐng) who monitor what people are saying online—so think twice before you hit send!

2. Death Penalty for Drug Use?

Now, let’s talk about something a little more serious: drugs. If you were thinking of indulging while you’re in China, think again. The country has a 零容忍 (líng róng rěn) policy when it comes to narcotics, and we’re not just talking about a slap on the wrist. Get caught with drugs, and you could be looking at serious jail time or—brace yourself—死刑 (sǐ xíng), the death penalty.

No, that’s not a typo. In fact, China is one of the few countries where the death penalty is still heavily used, and while Amnesty International's Death Sentences and Executions 2010 report shows nearly a hundred countries have abolished the death penalty for all crimes, China continues to carry it out. The report officially recorded 527 executions worldwide in 2010, not including the thousands thought to have been executed in China.

And before you start thinking, “Well, it's just weed, right?”—think again. To the police, there’s no difference between 大麻 (dà má, marijuana) and 可卡因 (kě kǎ yīn, cocaine). The authorities operate on a strict "once you do weed, you’ll do hard drugs" mindset, so don’t expect any leniency. Even a tiny amount can lead to deportation, jail time, or even the death penalty. So, unless you’re looking for a one-way ticket out of the country in the worst way possible, just say no to drugs.

The Chinese flag displayed prominently against a clear sky.

3. Traveling to Sensitive Areas

HUH?

So you’re dreaming of Tibet or Xinjiang, huh? ➡️

Here’s a heads-up: these regions have rules that could ruin your trip if you’re not careful.

First, Tibet. To even step foot in this sacred land, you’ll need a Tibet Travel Permit (西藏旅行许可证, xīzàng lǚ xíng xǔ kě zhèng), and it’s only given through an official travel agency. Oh, and don’t forget a licensed tour guide to follow you around like a lost puppy. No permit or guide? No entry. Try sneaking in, and you’ll likely get kicked out—or worse, arrested. Not the vacation vibe you want.

Now, let’s talk Xinjiang. The rules are a little more relaxed, but if you wander too close to certain areas near the border, you’ll need special permits. You know, just in case you’re planning to accidentally wander into a government surveillance zone. Just ask the German news team who went to Xinjiang to interview locals—they were followed everywhere by a black car. It wasn’t a fan club; it was the authorities keeping tabs — every 20 meters you will see a police or police car.

Bottom line: if you’re planning to visit either region, get the right paperwork. Skip it, and you might get a one-way ticket home—and not the way you planned.

Curious to learn more about Xinjiang? Check out our video here:

4. Prostitution in China: Illegal, and the Police Might Just Knock Down Your Hotel Door

Now, let’s get into a subject that’s a bit... spicy. Prostitution (叫鸡 jiào jī) in China is illegal, and the authorities are serious about keeping it that way. In fact, they have an entire crackdown campaign for it, known as 扫黄 (sǎo huáng), which literally means "sweeping out the yellow"—a term specifically referring to illegal sexual activities or pornographic content.

You might think you're just having a casual night in a hotel, but if the police get wind of any suspicious activity, don’t be surprised if they come knocking. And by knocking, I mean they might literally bust down your door to make sure you’re not involved in anything... less than legal. It’s not exactly the room service you were expecting.

So, if you're planning to partake, remember: it could lead to more than just an awkward conversation—it might involve a police escort and a not-so-pleasant detour to the local station. Stay on the safe side and keep things PG—unless you want your vacation memories to include a police interrogation instead of 小笼包xiǎo lóng bāo (steamed meat bun).

5. Be Aware of Pretty Girls

Now, let’s talk about a scam that’s too good to be true—and will leave you wondering if your wallet has been pickpocketed in broad daylight. In some places in China, a friendly and pretty local girl might invite you to a nice dinner. Sounds harmless, right? Well, here’s the catch: that dinner might end up costing you way more than you bargained for—like $2,000 more. Yep, the girl is likely in cahoots with the restaurant (or a nearby *茶馆* cháguǎn, tea house), and before you know it, you’re slapped with a bill that’s heavier than a Yunnan tea set.

And if you think that’s bad, wait until you hear about *仙人跳* (xiān rén tiào), a scam that dates all the way back to the Qing Dynasty. The name literally means “fairy's jump,” but don’t let the poetic name fool you—it’s a classic honey trap. Here’s how it works: A seemingly sweet and flirty girl lures a man into a hotel room, and just as things start heating up, her *very angry* husband or boyfriend bursts in. Cue the screaming, threats of police involvement, and demands for a massive payout to "settle things privately." Spoiler alert: refusing to pay isn’t usually an option unless you’re ready for a not-so-friendly encounter.

So, if a beautiful stranger is *just a little too eager* to take you somewhere private, ask yourself: are you getting lucky, or are you about to take a financial (and possibly physical) beating?

Stay Smart and Stay Safe

Visiting China can be an incredible adventure—if you know the rules and avoid these common traps. Whether it’s navigating WeChat’s unwritten censorship laws, staying clear of legal landmines like drugs and prostitution, or sidestepping scam artists at dinner, a little knowledge goes a long way. China is a country of deep history, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, but it also has its share of complexities that can catch even the most seasoned travelers off guard.

If you’re planning a trip to China (or just want to learn more about its fascinating culture), why not start by mastering the language? Not only will it make your travel experience smoother, but it’ll also help you navigate the cultural nuances and avoid these potential pitfalls.

Ready to get started? Book your Chinese language lessons with us today and turn those “oops” moments into “wow” moments!