China
3 governments, 3 different opinions
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1
Level 1 (Xinjiang & Tibet); no nationwide advisory
MOFA issues no nationwide danger advisory, but rates the Xinjiang Uyghur and Tibet Autonomous Regions at Level 1 (Exercise Caution) due to past riots and indiscriminate attacks.
United States (State Dept)
Level 2
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detention. Dual nationals and people of Chinese descent face heightened scrutiny. (Maintained March 12, 2026.)
United Kingdom (FCDO)
The FCDO highlights the risk of arbitrary detention and exit bans, strict rules on photography near sensitive sites, scams, and the need for a VPN to access many Western apps and websites.
Japan and the US assess this country one level apart. Review both perspectives below.
The US (Level 2) emphasises legal and political risks — arbitrary detention, exit bans, and the wrongful detention of foreigners — that Japan’s advisory does not foreground (MOFA flags only Xinjiang and Tibet at Level 1). For most tourists the everyday issues are practical: Google, LINE, WhatsApp and many Western sites are blocked without a VPN, foreign cards are often unusable (WeChat Pay / Alipay dominate), and photographing military, government, or protest scenes can lead to detention.
What Each Government Says
Japan (MOFA)
Level 1 (Xinjiang & Tibet); no nationwide advisory
“MOFA issues no nationwide danger advisory, but rates the Xinjiang Uyghur and Tibet Autonomous Regions at Level 1 (Exercise Caution) due to past riots and indiscriminate attacks.”
United States (State Dept)
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
“Exercise increased caution due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detention. Dual nationals and people of Chinese descent face heightened scrutiny. (Maintained March 12, 2026.)”United Kingdom (FCDO)
See our advice before travelling
“The FCDO highlights the risk of arbitrary detention and exit bans, strict rules on photography near sensitive sites, scams, and the need for a VPN to access many Western apps and websites.”Destination Customs
Prohibited / Restricted Imports
Drones — bringing drones into Beijing is banned (effective May 1, 2026); elsewhere registration is required. Spare lithium batteries must be in carry-on (≤100Wh each).
Satellite phones and certain GPS/radio transmitters — restricted; may be confiscated.
Politically sensitive, religious-proselytising, or material deemed obscene (print or digital) — prohibited.
Foreign currency over US$5,000 or RMB 20,000 must be declared.
Medicines — carry a prescription; some psychotropic drugs are controlled.
Export Restrictions
Antiques and cultural relics made before 1949 — export controlled; an official red seal/permit is required.
Endangered-species products (ivory, certain traditional-medicine ingredients) — prohibited under CITES.
Customs rules can change. Always verify with the local customs authority or embassy before travelling. See Japan return customs guide
SAFE-SENTINEL Tips
💡 Based on all 3 sources:
- 1.Install a reputable VPN before you arrive — Google, LINE, WhatsApp, Instagram and many sites are blocked, and VPN apps cannot be downloaded once inside China.
- 2.Set up WeChat Pay or Alipay (both can link foreign cards) — cash and foreign credit cards are often not accepted.
- 3.Do not photograph military, government, police, or protest scenes — it can lead to questioning or detention.
- 4.Carry your passport at all times; hotels require it and police can ask for ID.
- 5.Personal VPN use is widely tolerated for tourists, but selling or operating unapproved VPNs is illegal — use discreetly.
- 6.Bringing drones into Beijing is banned (since May 1, 2026); register drones and check local rules elsewhere.
- 7.Download offline maps (Western map apps are unreliable) and use Didi for taxis; avoid unmetered cabs.
Pre-Trip Checklist
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Emergency Contacts
Japanese Embassy
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Sources & Freshness
⚠️ This information may not reflect the latest situation. Always check official sources before travelling.