Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a vibrant city known for its spicy cuisine, adorable pandas, and rich cultural heritage. As a top tourist destination, it attracts millions of visitors each year. However, like any popular travel hotspot, Chengdu has its share of scams targeting unsuspecting tourists. To help you enjoy your trip without falling victim to fraud, here’s a comprehensive safety checklist.
One of the oldest tricks in the book involves friendly locals inviting tourists to a "traditional" tea house. Once inside, you’ll be presented with an exorbitant bill—sometimes hundreds of dollars—for a simple cup of tea. The scammer may disappear, leaving you to deal with aggressive staff.
How to Avoid It:
- Politely decline invitations from strangers.
- Research reputable tea houses in advance (like Heming Teahouse in People’s Park).
- Always check prices before ordering.
Chengdu’s Giant Panda Breeding Research Base is a must-visit, but some agencies offer "volunteer experiences" at inflated prices or with no real access to pandas.
How to Avoid It:
- Book directly through the official panda base website.
- Avoid third-party sellers with prices that seem too good to be true.
- Read reviews from past participants.
Some drivers rig their meters or take unnecessarily long routes to hike up fares.
How to Avoid It:
- Use ride-hailing apps like DiDi (China’s Uber equivalent).
- Insist the driver uses the meter.
- Familiarize yourself with approximate fares beforehand.
Vendors or taxi drivers may give counterfeit bills as change, especially at night markets or less regulated businesses.
How to Avoid It:
- Check bills for watermarks and security strips.
- Pay with small denominations when possible.
- Use mobile payments (WeChat Pay or Alipay) to avoid cash altogether.
Scalpers near popular sites like Jinli Ancient Street or Wuhou Shrine may sell fake or overpriced tickets.
How to Avoid It:
- Purchase tickets at official counters or online platforms (Ctrip, Meituan).
- Ignore street vendors offering "discounted" tickets.
Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas like Chunxi Road or metro stations.
Prevention:
- Use anti-theft bags or money belts.
- Keep valuables in front pockets or a crossbody bag.
Some touts offer "free" city tours but pressure tourists into shopping at overpriced stores.
Prevention:
- Book tours through licensed agencies.
- Read the fine print before accepting "free" services.
Unregistered guides may charge hidden fees or provide inaccurate information.
Prevention:
- Hire guides through your hotel or verified platforms.
- Check for official guide certifications.
In nightlife areas like Lan Kwai Fong (Chengdu’s bar street), some bars lure tourists in with cheap drinks, then charge outrageous fees later.
Prevention:
- Stick to well-reviewed establishments.
- Confirm prices before ordering.
Friendly individuals claiming to be art students may invite you to an exhibition, then pressure you into buying overpriced artwork.
Prevention:
- Politely decline unsolicited invitations.
- Visit galleries independently if interested.
By staying alert and following this checklist, you can focus on enjoying Chengdu’s incredible sights, flavors, and culture—without the stress of scams. Safe travels!
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Author: Chengdu Travel
Link: https://chengdutravel.github.io/travel-blog/avoiding-scams-in-chengdu-a-safety-checklist-443.htm
Source: Chengdu Travel
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