China: Update on Safety Information

Risk Level

• Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Tibet Autonomous Region:
  Level 1: Exercise caution (unchanged)

Key Points

• Recently, violent incidents involving knife attacks have occurred in crowded areas (parks, schools, subways, etc.) across China, with some incidents involving Japanese nationals. Stay alert to suspicious individuals and be mindful of your surroundings when going out.
• In the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, riots and indiscriminate attacks have caused numerous casualties in the past. The potential for similar events to occur remains, so continued vigilance is necessary.
• In the Tibet Autonomous Region, past protests led by monks have escalated into violent clashes, resulting in numerous casualties. As unrest may still arise, it’s important to remain cautious.

Details

1. Overview
   • While the overall security situation in China is stable, the country’s vast size and diverse regions mean that incidents related to ethnic and religious tensions can occur. Staying informed about local conditions is essential for safe travel and residence.
   • Violent incidents involving knife attacks in crowded areas have been reported across China, with Japanese nationals also falling victim. Ensure your safety by being aware of suspicious individuals and staying vigilant, especially when accompanied by children.
   • In Xinjiang, riots and random attacks have caused fatalities, while in Tibet, protests and self-immolations by monks have led to casualties. Due to these security concerns, Level 1 Risk Information (exercise caution) remains in place for these regions.
   • Even outside the autonomous regions, incidents linked to ethnic and religious tensions, as well as random attacks, have occurred. It’s important to remain alert.
   • Acts deemed to “harm national security” in China may result in lengthy detentions and severe punishments, including imprisonment. In 2023, a revised law aimed at countering espionage was enacted, and in 2024, the National Secrets Protection Law will be further amended. It’s crucial to avoid any actions that may be perceived as threats to national security.
2. Regional Security
   • Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
     Level 1: Exercise caution (unchanged)
     In 2009, riots in Urumqi resulted in numerous casualties. Additional violent incidents, including indiscriminate killings, have since occurred. The situation in Xinjiang remains unstable, and continued caution is advised.
   • Tibet Autonomous Region
     Level 1: Exercise caution (unchanged)
     Foreign visitors must obtain a permit to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region. Protests, some violent, have occurred in the past, leading to casualties. The situation remains tense, particularly during certain periods, such as the annual commemoration of the 1959 uprising.
   • Other Regions
     Violent incidents involving knives and other weapons have also occurred in other parts of China, such as the following recent cases:
     • Shenzhen, Guangdong Province: A Japanese student was fatally attacked on the way to school (September 2024).
     • Suzhou, Jiangsu Province: A knife attack at a school bus stop resulted in the death of a Chinese national (June 2024).