Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
your own self discipline and cross when it's truly safe to cross, and never expect cars to
give way.
As far as actual driving is concerned, thanks to the clogging traffic in the inner city,
speeds are relatively slow, so collisions are usually mild fender benders. Out on the high-
ways, however, fatal accidents are a serious and growing problem, with tens of thousands
killed every year. Take extra caution when driving on open roads, and always drive defens-
ively.
The government is highly suspicious of gatherings, and police will often shut down events
such as parties at a residence that seem to be drawing too big a crowd. Protests do occur
from time to time, especially at times of international tension. For example, at the time
of conflict over the Diaoyu Islands (Senkaku), Japanese expats, China-based Japanese
companies, and even Chinese owners of Japanese-made cars became targets of violence.
In 2011, when worldwide Jasmine Revolution protests against authoritarian governments
threatened to flare up in China, the government quickly neutralized the situation by round-
ing up potential activists, deploying large numbers of police, and ramping up censorship.
It's strongly advised that you avoid areas of protest. Not only may you be at risk from acts
of violence from crowds, but the police will not treat you favorably just because you're a
foreigner.
You should be under no illusion that your life will be private when you are in China.
It's a well-known fact that the government regularly surveys emails, text messages, cell
phones—any form of communication. Video cameras are ubiquitous throughout the city,
and whether you are in an office, hotel, residence, or restaurant, there is a chance that you
may be monitored, particularly if you are doing something of interest to the government.
Diplomats, journalists with a J visa, and various bloggers are notoriously kept under watch-
ful eyes. If you're involved with sensitive information it's highly recommended to be mind-
ful of where and when you discuss it.
If you are involved in a serious accident or are the victim of a violent crime, call the police
by dialing 110. Following this, you may need to contact your embassy to see if you need
legal counsel. If you're an American citizen, you can also contact the American Citizen
