Asia
Shanghai
China
Quick Answer
Use filtered or bottled water.
Concerned About Water in Shanghai?
A reliable water filter is yes (recommended) for this destination.
🛒Get a Travel Water Filter on Amazon→Detailed Guidance
Shanghai's municipal water is treated but due to aging distribution pipes and local practices, tourists should drink bottled or boiled/filtered water and avoid ice or uncooked produce washed in tap water.
Tap Water Usage Guide
Brush Teeth
Use bottled water
Ice Cubes
Avoid
Wash Fruit
Peel or wash with bottled water
Shower
Yes
Restaurants
Typically no (bottled is standard)
Locals Drink
Mixed (many filter/boil)
Water Quality Score
Water Quality
Poor
Water Source
Shanghai's supplies are drawn mainly from the Huangpu and Yangtze river systems and nearby reservoirs; water is treated at municipal plants (coagulation, filtration and disinfection) though quality can vary by neighborhood and building plumbing.
Travel Safety Information
Pickpocket Risk
Moderate
Night Safety
Mostly safe
Scam Risk
Moderate
English Level
High
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to November
🛒 Don't Forget Your Travel Essential
A water filter is yes (recommended) for Shanghai. Stay safe and hydrated.
View on Amazon→Other Cities in China
Beijing
China
Avoid drinking unboiled tap water; use sealed bottled water or a reliable filter/boiled water for drinking. Brushing teeth and showering are generally fine, but wash or peel fruit with bottled/boiled water.
Guangzhou
China
Water treatment meets standards, but aging pipes can introduce contaminants. Stick to bottled or filtered water.
Shenzhen
China
Do not drink tap water unboiled; use bottled water or boiled/filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth. Avoid ice unless it is made from bottled or clearly filtered water.
Chengdu
China
Water treatment meets standards, but aging pipes can introduce contaminants. Stick to bottled or filtered water.