Is Chengdu Safe in May 2026?

Unlicensed "black taxis" operate outside Chengdu train stations and airports, targeting tourists with flat rates that are far above the metered fare. Drivers may claim all licensed taxis are taken or offer "convenience" for your luggage.

How to avoid: Only take official taxis with "川A·T" license plates. The starting meter rate should be ¥9. Use Didi (China's Uber) for transparent upfront fares. Ignore anyone who approaches you proactively offering a ride.

Friendly "students" or locals approach solo tourists in Kuanzhai Alley or near People's Park and invite them to a traditional tea house for a "cultural experience." The menu has no prices, a full tea ceremony is performed, and the bill arrives in the hundreds or even thousands of yuan.

How to avoid: Politely decline all invitations to tea houses from strangers. If you want to try a tea ceremony, book one through your hotel or a licensed tour company with upfront pricing. A genuine tea ceremony at a reputable venue costs around ¥50–150 per person.

Touts near the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding claim to sell official tickets at a discount. The tickets are fake or stolen, and you will be turned away at the gate. The panda base frequently sells out, making this scam especially effective.

How to avoid: Book Panda Base tickets in advance only through the official WeChat mini-program or the official website. Do not buy tickets from anyone on the street or outside the entrance. Tickets sell out weeks in advance during peak season.

Around Jinli Ancient Street and Wuhou Shrine, touts hand tourists a laminated menu advertising foot massages or full-body massages for ¥30–60. Once inside the parlour, the actual bill is 5–10 times higher, with additions for "oil," "technique fees," and surcharges. Refusal to pay often results in aggressive demands or a blocked exit until a settlement is reached. The practice is widespread along the tourist strip and targets visitors who have already received the service.

How to avoid: Agree on the full itemised price — including every possible add-on — before any service begins and get it in writing or on-screen. If a venue refuses to show a written menu, walk away. Reputable massage businesses near Jinli will not use street touts.

Pickpocket teams operate on busy Chengdu metro lines — especially Line 1 and Line 4 near tourist stations like Tianfu Square and Chunxi Road. One person distracts or presses against you while an accomplice removes your wallet or phone.

How to avoid: Keep your phone and wallet in a zipped front pocket or a bag worn on your chest. Be especially alert when boarding and when doors are closing — that's when pressure is highest. Do not use your phone openly in crowded carriages.