Is Shanghai Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Shanghai is generally a safe city for solo female travelers with low levels of crime. The city has a 24-hour security system and police are readily accessible. However, like any major city, it is advised to be cautious especially at night in quiet areas and when using taxis. Pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded places such as markets and train stations, so it's recommended to keep your belongings secure at all times. Following general safety advice such as avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night and being mindful of your personal belongings can help you enjoy a trouble-free stay in Shanghai.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on 6 experiences from female travelers

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.7 /5

Based on 11 experiences from local women

Shanghai is currently ranked #78 safest place for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.5 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Shanghai?

Safety at night:Safe

Shanghai, as one of the most developed cities in China, possesses a good safety record, especially for female travelers. Generally, the streets are well-lit and populated even late at night. The presence of police and security personnel is evident in most of the areas. However, there are certain places where muggings and petty thefts are reported, hence it is always recommended to stay alert and cautious in crowded places and avoid less-traveled areas at night.

Public transportation:Safe

Shanghai's public transportation system is relatively safe and reliable. The metro, buses, and ferries are frequently used by locals and tourists alike, and security measures are generally in place like security checks at metro stations. Taxis are also metered and regulated. However, do remember to avoid peak hours to make your travel less stressful and always keep an eye on your belongings. It's also wise to have your destination written in Chinese as most drivers do not speak English.

Street harassment:Low

Shanghai, being one of China's most modern and cosmopolitan cities, generally exhibits low street harassment levels. The locals are accustomed to foreigners and usually maintain a respectful distance. Though unexpected incidents may occasionally occur, as in any other city worldwide, they aren't the norm. Public areas are well-patrolled, especially tourist-centric locations, making it safe for solo female travelers most of the time.

Petty crimes:Low

Shanghai is generally safe for solo female travelers with the risk of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching being comparatively low. However, these can happen primarily in crowded areas and on public transportation. Also, scams or tourist traps are prevalent so it's essential to stay alert and aware of surroundings, especially in busier tourist areas. While it is relatively safe, keeping the standard level of vigilance is advisable.

Is Shanghai worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 6 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

3.9/5

Safety

4.5/5

Food

3.7/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5

Solo travel

Shanghai is overall safe. the night life is so fun and interesting. can’t recommend a hotel or restaurant, mostly stayed with a local friends. worth to visit just to meet new people and get the vibe of the city

Posted: January 24, 2025

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Josh

Germany

Solo travel

Its pretty safe traveling in Shanghai, or most big cities in China. In Shanghai, i went to see a football game, went to Disneyland, went to see an opera, and taste some traditional food, beer and coffee. They are all recommended. Shanghai is also known as coffee city in China, if you are interested in Coffee, you should definitely try some. I spent 1k CNY for the flights, 300 for 1 night hotel, the rest of nights I was couch surfing, 500 for Disney land, 300 for opera tickets, 200 for football ticket. 1k for eating and drinking. I get around mostly by shared bike. It’s really convenient, for most spots we can ride in several minutes.

Posted: November 15, 2024

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Group travel

It was an amazing experience and it’s really safe to travel as a lady . But make sure you have your translator with you if you can’t speak mandarin. The people are really friendly and easy going . I had countless gifts.

Posted: January 12, 2024

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Solo travel

A year ago, I visited Shanghai by myself. It seemed that there was an extraordinary lack of sexual harassment there, which made me feel extremely safe. China has its challenges (mainly language, taxis, and crowds), but public transport is amazing and easy. The food is worth the visit. It's a great place for a solo trip.

Posted: October 1, 2023

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Solo travel

I went to Shanghai alone and it was a wonderful, invigorating experience. I treated myself to a hotel instead of a hostel and essentially roamed Shanghai alone for three days according to my own schedule. When I had enough of the city, I did some research online, took a train to Anhui province and climbed a mountain (Huangshan). It was amazing. Sometimes it was frightening (I don't speak Mandarin at all), but I managed to understand it and people were very kind and helpful.

Posted: September 27, 2023

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Is Shanghai safe for women?

Safety index

4.7 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 11 local experiences

I feel very safe in Shanghai. I can tell that the locals feel the same. No one bothers anyone here. There are cameras almost everywhere and police presence at key spots. There are also security checks at metro stations. Even when I walk alone at night, I don’t feel afraid.

Posted: May 24, 2025

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Life is very safe in Shanghai: tangible and strictly enforced laws are in place to protect women in any and all settings. Culturally, misogyny and sexism are still present, but would rarely escalate into physical violence. Help lines and healthcare services are readily available.

Posted: May 19, 2025

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