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

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How safe is Shanghai for female travelers?

Travel safety index

4.5 /5

based on 6 experiences from female travelers

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

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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How safe is Shanghai for women?

Local safety index

4.8 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Local crime index

1.2 /5

Based on 15 local experiences

Mei

Mei

I never feel safe and sound walking around at night before until I live here in Shanghai, the place are so safe and always have a new spot to hang out. I can wear whatever I want without the judgement of people because everyone here can dress however they want. Overall I love this place so much even though I have very few friend 🥺🤎

Posted: November 10, 2025
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I have lived in Shanghai for over 20 years and have lived alone for more than 5 years. I think Shanghai is a safe city for women traveling alone. I have never been harassed, and it has generally been safe to go home late at night.

Posted: October 4, 2025
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Joke

Joke

I feel like China is one of the safest countries I’ve ever been to or lived, you can be drunk on your bike home at night or in a taxi and nothing will happen. Me and other girl friends have always felt super safe and have no bad experiences

Posted: September 24, 2025
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Safety in China