Other Tourist Scams in Beijing, China
Timeshares, fake police, charity fraud, and miscellaneous scams targeting visitors. Below are the other scams scams reported in Beijing — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Kyoto, Shanghai, and Taipei.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
1
Other Scams Scams
12
Total in Beijing
How it works
Individuals dressed as Buddhist monks approach tourists near major temples and tourist corridors, presenting a string of prayer beads as a gift before demanding a cash donation. Once the beads are placed in your hand, they create strong social pressure — sometimes grabbing your arm — until you pay. Legitimate monks in Beijing do not solicit donations from strangers on the street, and this scam is entirely performed by non-religious actors.
See all scams in Beijing
12 total warnings across all categories