6 Traffic Rules You Need to Know as a Tourist in China (2026)
1. Red lights don’t apply to cars that are turning right at junctions - they are supposed to give way to pedestrians, but always pay attention to traffic. 🔴
2. Keep your eyes open on traffic even if it’s green light for you. Don’t assume anything or just follow another person because they are doing it. Someone might run a red light, especially scooters or cyclists. 🚥
3. When walking, don’t change direction or step sideways before looking behind you. In some cities, it is very common for scooters and cyclists to ride on the footpath, especially when there is no dedicated lane for them in the road. They often creep up behind you without any noise. 🚶🏻♂️
4. If your footpath stops suddenly, look for a footbridge or subway. Sometimes, it might not be obvious and you might have to enter an underground mall to cross the road. In a few cases, you might need to walk on the road for a short distance to get back onto a footpath - this happens when there are obstructions or roadworks. 👣
5. I don’t recommend jaywalking - traffic officers might shout at you, particularly at major junctions. 👮🏻
6. If you’re cycling or riding a scooter, use dedicated lanes when available. Be careful around pedestrians. 🛵
👉 Check out my article How to Get Around and Use Public Transport in China: Beginner's Guide
👉 Check out my article Best Cities To Experience High Speed Rail In China
