Is Shanghai dangerous? When it comes to Shanghai safety, the city has a reputation for being relatively safe. However, as with any major metropolis, there are certain areas and situations that are more dangerous than others. In this article, we will explore the most common causes of injury, natural dangers, and crime in Shanghai, as well as the best and worst times of the year for weather-related safety. We will also provide data on crime rates in the city and highlight both the areas to avoid and the safest areas to stick to. Despite the potential risks, Shanghai is still a vibrant and exciting destination that welcomes millions of tourists every year.
Common Causes of Injury
One of the most common causes of injury in Shanghai is traffic accidents. The city’s roads can be very busy and chaotic, and pedestrian and bicycle safety is often overlooked. To stay safe while walking or biking in Shanghai, it is important to use designated crosswalks and bike lanes, and to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Additionally, air pollution can also be a concern in Shanghai, and visitors should take steps to protect themselves from the city’s notoriously smoggy air.
Natural Dangers
There are few natural dangers to be aware of in Shanghai. However, during the summer months, the city can experience heavy rain and thunderstorms, which can lead to flooding and landslides in low-lying areas. Visitors should be aware of the weather forecast and take appropriate precautions if bad weather is forecasted.
Crime
Shanghai has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities. However, there are certain areas and types of crime that visitors should be aware of. Pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in crowded areas such as markets, subway stations and tourist hotspots. Visitors should be especially careful with their valuables in these areas and be mindful of their surroundings.
Data on Crime
According to the Shanghai Public Security Bureau, the city’s overall crime rate has been decreasing over the past few years. In 2019, the total number of criminal cases in Shanghai was 1.15 million, a decrease of 4.5% compared to 2018. The total number of crimes in the city was 4.9% lower than in 2018. The most common crime in Shanghai is theft, with a total of 468,000 cases reported in 2019, accounting for 40.5% of all crimes.
Areas to Avoid
While Shanghai is generally a safe city, there are certain areas that visitors should avoid. These include the red-light districts in the city, as well as certain neighborhoods known for high levels of crime. Some of the most dangerous areas in Shanghai include parts of Hongkou, Yangpu, and Zhabei districts. Visitors should also avoid travelling alone in the city at night, and should be especially careful when travelling in unfamiliar areas.
Safest Areas to Stick to
The safest areas to stick to in Shanghai include the city’s main tourist hotspots such as the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Tower. These areas are heavily patrolled by police and security guards, and are generally considered safe for tourists. Additionally, the city’s main shopping and business districts, such as the Xintiandi and Lujiazui areas, are also considered safe.
Conclusion
Shanghai is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer tourists. While it’s true that the city has its fair share of dangers, with a littlebit of caution and planning, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip. It is important to be aware of the most common causes of injury, such as traffic accidents and air pollution, and to take steps to protect yourself. Additionally, visitors should be mindful of the weather forecast and take appropriate precautions in the event of heavy rain or thunderstorms. When it comes to crime, Shanghai has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities, but pickpocketing and purse snatching are common in crowded areas. Visitors should be especially careful with their valuables in these areas and be mindful of their surroundings. Overall, visitors should be aware of the areas to avoid, such as the red-light districts and certain neighborhoods known for high levels of crime, but they should also familiarize themselves with the safest areas to stick to, such as the city’s main tourist hotspots, shopping and business districts. With these safety tips in mind, visitors can enjoy all that Shanghai has to offer while staying safe.
