14.1 Can I drink tap water in Chinese hotels?

For first‑time visitors to China, one of the most basic and important health questions is:
“Is the tap water in my hotel room safe to drink?”

The answer is very clear and absolute: No. In China, including in hotels, tap water is not safe to drink directly.

This is a rule you should follow strictly in order to avoid stomach problems and stay healthy during your trip.

Why not?
Tap water in China is treated differently from many Western countries and is not up to “drink straight from the tap” standards. Unboiled tap water may contain microorganisms that can cause stomach upset or other issues.
Where this applies:
This rule applies everywhere — in big cities and small towns, and in all types of accommodation, from budget hostels to five‑star luxury hotels.

Fortunately, hotels in China are very aware of this issue and provide several convenient and completely safe options for drinking water.

1. Complimentary bottled water

What to expect:
Almost all hotels in China provide one or two free bottles of water in your room every day. You’ll usually find them on the desk or bedside table.
Tip:
This is your most straightforward and reliable drinking water source. If you need more, bottled water is sold very cheaply in any convenience store or supermarket.

2. Electric kettle

What to expect:
An electric kettle is standard equipment in almost every hotel room in China, regardless of price level. This is because drinking boiled water is a common local habit.
How to use it:
You can fill the kettle with tap water and bring it to a full boil. Properly boiled water is safe to drink. Let it cool before drinking, or use it to make tea or coffee.

“Can I use tap water to brush my teeth?”
- For most people, brushing your teeth with tap water is fine, as long as you don’t swallow it.
- If you have a very sensitive stomach or simply prefer to be extra cautious, you can use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.
“Are drinks with ice safe?”
- In reputable mid‑range and high‑end restaurants, bars, and hotels, ice is usually made from filtered or purified water and is generally considered safe.
- In small restaurants or street stalls, if you’re worried, the easiest solution is to order drinks without ice.
“Is tap water safe for showering and washing my face?”
- Yes. Tap water in hotels is perfectly safe for showering, bathing, and washing your face or hands. There is no need to worry about that.

In Chinese hotels, follow these simple rules for drinking water:

“Do not drink”:
Never drink cold water straight from any tap.
“Safe to drink”:
- Complimentary bottled water
- Tap water that you have boiled fully using the electric kettle in your room

Stick to these guidelines and you’ll have no trouble staying safely hydrated during your stay in China.

Have questions about your trip?