China travel answer · Health
Can international visitors drink tap water in China?
Reviewed 2026-07-19 · Conditions and policies can change
CT
Written & reviewed by China Travel Atlas Editorial Team
China Travel Specialists|Based in Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai|Last updated: 2026-07-19
Direct answer
Do not assume that hotel or household tap water is ready to drink. Use sealed bottled water or water that has been properly boiled or treated, unless the property clearly provides a maintained drinking-water system.
What to know
- ●Use safe water for drinking and for taking medication; travelers with particular medical needs should seek professional advice.
- ●Check that bottled-water seals are intact and ask the hotel which taps or dispensers provide potable water.
- ●Hot water is widely available, but visible heat alone does not prove that water was boiled or safely stored.
Primary sources to verify
Use the source below to recheck time-sensitive conditions for your exact passport, route or travel date.