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 index

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How safe is Shanghai?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

4.6/5

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

4.3 /5

Based on 4 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 4 local experiences

Maggie

Maggie

It’s so safe that I feel totallybcomfortable walking home at 3 am being kind of drunk. Or walk to the bathroom with my laptop left on the table of a Starbucks. It’s totally normal if I just go to a bar alone and enjoy a night of music/drinks without worrying about being harassed. And if I see another woman being bothered, I wouldn’t hesitate to step up and help her.

Posted: July 12, 2024
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Megan

Megan

In Shanghai, if you're eating alone, you can even leave your cell phone on the table to go to the bathroom. Feel free to leave your cell phone in your pants pocket or bag. There are no homeless people in downtown Shanghai. The subway and buses are clean, the staff is very helpful, and no one is selling or begging. You never have to worry about vehicle theft in Shanghai. All drivers obeyed the traffic rules well. There are almost no sexual harassment cases in Shanghai

Posted: June 8, 2024
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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 exercising a high degree of caution in China due to the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 24, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

**The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in China overall.** Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: September 3, 2024

Meet locals in Shanghai

Tally

Tally

About Me

Hi, I’m Korean Chinese. 🗺️I’m passionate about traveling and get to know different cultures. Currently I’m in the middle of my gap year, discovering myself and exploring the world. I will be in Europe for 50days, and would love to meet up with new people, talks walk, sightseeing, lunch/dinner together, clubbing. 🌈 Bi

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Shanghai

Rafiqua

Rafiqua

Shanghai

Can host for:

3 days

About me

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

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Shanghai

Ami

Ami

About Me

Hello future friends :) My name is Ami from Hiroshima, Japan🇯🇵 I am 21yo, totally friendly and polite. I love to explore my world-like to share our story and try something new cuz life is once. Lets enjoy trip together 🌸

Speaking

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Safety in China