Home

Safety

Asia

China

Shanghai

Is Shanghai safe for solo female travelers?

Name: Is Shanghai safe for solo female travelers?
Address: Shanghai, China
Rating: 4.586310932007176

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.

Shanghai is currently ranked #58 safest place for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

Safety rating

4.6 /5

Based on 3 travel experiences

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.

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.

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water in Shanghai is generally not recommended. While its standards are said to be improving, there are still potential problems such as heavy metals and bacteria due to substandard plumbing systems or polluted source water. It is typically suggested to drink bottled water, or if tap water must be used, ensure it is boiled or filtered thoroughly first.

Is Shanghai safe to travel?

4.6 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Group travel experience

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

favorite_border 7

mode_comment 2

Solo travel experience

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

favorite_border 1

mode_comment 0

Is Shanghai safe for women?

Rafiqua

I've never lived in a safer place than in Shanghai. You can walk around at night with your AirPods in your ears and there's no problem in terms of female safety. I do know that some of the cheaper nightclubs sometimes sell fake alcohol, which can make you get alcohol poisoning, but as far as date rape and stuff like that goes, it's not common at all.

Posted: March 9, 2024

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Is Shanghai safe right now?

Before your visit to Shanghai, it's essential to check travel advisories for China, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in China due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 16, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution overall in China. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 2, 2024

Is Shanghai worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

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

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

favorite_border 0

mode_comment 0

Check all reviews

Meet locals in Shanghai

Meet local women in Shanghai who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Preetha

About Me

Hello everyone, my name is Preetha. I’m an Indian citizen, living in Shanghai, China. I work as a freelance data scientist. I love traveling and tech 😉

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Rafiqua

About Me

I am. South African teacher working in Shanghai. I've lived in Asia for the last nine years.

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Stay with locals in Shanghai

Stay with local women in Shanghai who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

Kelly

Shanghai

Can host for:

1 day

About me

Pleasure with lifestyle and open minded to talk everything

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Hana

Shanghai

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hiiii I am an outgoing girl who loves travel!

Speaking

mode_comment 0

Check all hosts

Upcoming visitors to Shanghai

Connect with upcoming visitors to Shanghai who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.

Sandra

About Me

The one thing I love about traveling is experiencing something new. Although I am always looking for the next adventure, I'm actually a homebody. I like the balance. I have traveled mostly in Asian and a bit of Europe. Now I want to see Africa and South America.