Teahouse Scam in China

A very common scam in China is the so called teahouse scam. Tourists are approached by a single or a group of locals who speak English. After a short conversation the tourist is asked whether he is interested in attending a tea tasting or tea performance. People who do join will be charged exorbitant prices after the tasting.

The scam is common throughout the whole country from Beijing to remote places in Inner Mongolia. In Shanghai these people hang out around touristy places such as People's Square, YuYuan Garden, the Bund, and East Nanjing Road.

If a random English-speaking person approaches you and is acting super nice and tries to take you somewhere, 99% of the time they're trying to rip you off. Watch out.