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China · Not recommended

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in China?

China: stick to bottled or filtered water — tap water isn't recommended.

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Frequently asked questions

Is tap water safe to drink in China?

Stick to bottled or boiled water throughout mainland China — tap water is not recommended for drinking directly, even in major cities.

Is it safe to have ice in drinks in China?

Extend the same caution to ice as to tap water in China — it's easy to overlook, but ice carries the same risk unless you know it's made from purified water.

Can I brush my teeth with tap water in China?

Brushing your teeth with tap water is usually fine even where drinking it isn't recommended, but if you want to be extra cautious in China, use bottled water for that too.

Where can I buy safe drinking water in China?

Sealed bottled water from a reputable brand is widely available and the simplest safe option in China — just check the seal is intact before drinking.

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