Beijing is a city of breathtaking contrasts—ancient hutongs nestled beside gleaming skyscrapers, serene temples hidden behind bustling commercial streets. As one of the world’s most visited capitals, it offers an unforgettable journey through culture, history, and modernity. Yet, like many major tourist destinations, it has its share of pitfalls aimed at unsuspecting travelers. While most locals are incredibly hospitable and honest, a small minority preys on tourists’ lack of familiarity with local customs and language. From classic cons to modern twists, this guide will walk you through the most common Beijing scams and how to steer clear of them.
One of the most infamous traps in Beijing revolves around what seems like a cultural invitation.
You’re strolling through a popular area like Wangfujing or near the Forbidden City when friendly, well-dressed students approach you. They’ll ask if you’d like to practice English or join them for a traditional tea ceremony. It feels like a genuine cultural exchange. You’re led to a nearby tea house, enjoy a nice ceremony, and then presented with a bill that’s shockingly high—often hundreds or even thousands of RMB.
Politely decline any unsolicited invitations to tea ceremonies, art galleries, or “local” events from strangers on the street. If you wish to experience a tea ceremony, book through your hotel or a reputable tour company. Remember: genuine locals rarely approach tourists randomly for extended cultural activities.
This scam often targets well-meaning art lovers or those looking for unique souvenirs.
A friendly local strikes up a conversation and recommends an “amazing, once-in-a-lifetime” art exhibition. You’re taken to a small gallery where pressure sales tactics begin. You might be told the art is from famous artists or is a limited edition. Tourists often end up overpaying significantly for mass-produced or low-quality artwork.
Stick to established art districts like 798 Art Zone or recommended galleries. Do not follow strangers to private exhibitions. If you’re interested in buying art, research ahead or ask your hotel concierge for trusted options.
Transportation scams are among the most common issues tourists face in Beijing.
Some drivers, especially outside tourist spots, refuse to use the meter and quote a fixed price that’s several times the actual fare.
The driver starts the trip but claims the meter is broken midway, then demands an outrageous fee.
The driver takes a longer route to inflate the fare, sometimes in collusion with a commission-based shop or restaurant.
Always insist on using the meter. Use ride-hailing apps like Didi (China’s Uber equivalent) for transparent pricing. Avoid unlicensed taxis. If possible, have your destination written in Chinese to show the driver.
At major attractions like the Great Wall or the Summer Palace, you may be approached by individuals offering guided tours at a low price.
These “guides” often lack official certification. They may take you to parts of the attraction with mandatory “donations,” or to overpriced souvenir shops where they get a commission. Sometimes, they abandon the tour halfway.
Only hire guides from official tourist centers or your hotel. Look for government-issued guide IDs. Pre-book tours through reputable companies.
Common near temples such as the Lama Temple or in public squares.
Someone approaches you offering a “free” lucky bracelet or a small trinket. Once you accept, they insist on a donation or become aggressive demanding payment, sometimes following you around.
Do not accept anything offered by strangers. A firm “no, thank you” (or “bù yào” in Mandarin) and walking away is the best response.
Rickshaws can be a fun way to explore Beijing’s hutongs, but some operators exploit tourists.
After an enjoyable ride, the driver charges an exorbitant amount, claiming the price was “per person” or “per block” rather than the agreed fare.
Negotiate the price clearly before getting in, and confirm whether it’s for the entire ride or per person. Use rickshaws operated through your hotel or a tour company when possible.
The scammer gives you fake bills when returning change, often in a rushed or distracting manner. Tourists unfamiliar with Chinese currency may not notice until later.
Familiarize yourself with Chinese money. Check the security features (watermarks, security thread) when receiving change. Use smaller denominations when paying to avoid large change.
This often targets solo male travelers in areas like Sanlitun.
Friendly locals invite you to a “cool” bar or club. Once inside, you’re joined by others who order expensive drinks. Later, you’re presented with a hugely inflated bill and threatened if you refuse to pay.
Politely decline invitations to bars from strangers. Choose bars and clubs based on research or recommendations from trusted sources.
With the rise of online bookings, some fake hotels or hostels list attractive deals on third-party platforms.
You book and pay for a hotel that doesn’t exist, or that is drastically different from the description. Sometimes, you arrive to find no reservation.
Use well-known booking sites and read reviews carefully. Book directly through the hotel’s official website when possible.
Some touts claim that a major attraction is closed for a holiday, ceremony, or cleaning—and then offer to take you to a “better” alternative.
For example, near the Great Wall, scammers might tell you that the section you want to visit is closed and direct you to a different, often less impressive section where they earn commissions.
Verify opening hours officially ahead of time. Ignore unsolicited advice from strangers about attraction closures.
Beijing is a magnificent city that deserves to be explored with confidence and joy. By staying informed and vigilant, you can focus on creating wonderful memories without falling victim to these common scams.
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Author: Beijing Travel
Source: Beijing Travel
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