🚩 Local Scams · Guangzhou
Last verified 30 Jun 2025
Guangzhou's mix of historic alleys and glitzy districts hides its share of cons. Here are eight of the most common scams, plus clear advice to keep you safe.
1 Scam Spotlight Table
Tea-House Trap
Shamian Island, Yuexiu Park
How it works: Stranger invites you in for "tea tasting," ends with a ¥1 000+ bill
🛡️ Avoid: Decline unsolicited invites; stick to well-reviewed tea houses.
"Wine Girlfriend"
Xiguan Yongqingfang, Tianhe
How it works: Hostess lures you into private bar room, pads bill with hidden charges
🛡️ Avoid: Only go to bars with solid Dianping ratings; demand itemized menu.
Taxi Overcharge
Airport, Guangzhou East Station
How it works: Unlicensed cab tampers meter or claims "no small change"
🛡️ Avoid: Use Didi or licensed "粤"-plate taxis; photograph plate & driver ID.
Fake "Police" Check
Tourist areas, metro exits
How it works: Imposter accuses you of papers violation, demands "fine" on spot
🛡️ Avoid: Ask to see official badge; suggest going to nearest station together.
Artisan Workshop Scam
Guangdong Folk Craft Museum vicinity
How it works: "Student" offers free craft demo, then pressures you to buy overpriced art
🛡️ Avoid: Pre-book workshops through official museum channels only.
Currency Switch
Qingping Market, small alleys
How it works: Street exchanger swaps your bills for fakes or short-changes
🛡️ Avoid: Use bank ATMs or official exchangers; count notes in front of teller.
Phantom Tour Guide
Canton Tower promenade, Pearl River
How it works: Offers "exclusive" guided tour then inflates fees or diverts to shops
🛡️ Avoid: Book guides via licensed agencies or Dianping experiences only.
QR-Code Phishing
Night markets, snack stalls
How it works: Unsolicited QR codes lead to fake pay pages that drain your wallet
🛡️ Avoid: Only scan codes from printed menus or trusted apps; verify URLs.
2 Why It Matters
Cultural tactics — Scammers exploit Cantonese politeness ("mianzi") and language gaps to pressure victims.
High-pressure pitch — Once you're engaged, it's hard to back out without social awkwardness—planning your exit line is key.
Broad reach — From historic Baiyun Mountain shuttles to luxury river cruises, these cons span tourist and local hangouts alike.
3 Pro Tips
1
Buddy system — Explore malls and nightlife with at least one companion to spot and defuse high-pressure pitches.
2
App vetting — Always check Dianping/Meituan reviews before accepting any on-street offers.
3
Digital pay only — Use WeChat or Alipay scan-to-pay on menus you can see; avoid giving cash or cards to strangers.
4
Emergency prep — Save +86 20 110 (local police) and your country's consulate number in your phone.
5
Trust instincts — If a deal sounds too good—or pressure feels too heavy—politely refuse and walk away.
✨ Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Stay alert, follow these tips, and you'll keep your Guangzhou journey focused on the sights and flavors—not the scams.