One: Smoking Regulations in Public Places in China

In recent years, China has gradually strengthened its tobacco control management, but the enforcement intensity varies across different regions and venues. Below are the key points:

1. National Regulations

• Indoor Public Place Smoking Ban: According to the "Regulations on Hygiene Management of Public Places," smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places (such as airports, train stations, museums, shopping malls, restaurants, cinemas, hospitals, schools, etc.).
• Some Outdoor Restrictions: In some cities, certain outdoor areas (such as park entrances, bus stops, and areas around sports venues) may also have no-smoking signs.
• Penalty Measures: Violators may face fines ranging from 50 to 500 RMB, but actual enforcement varies depending on the city.

2. Special Regulations in Key Cities

• Beijing: Since 2015, the "Beijing Tobacco Control Regulations" have been implemented, banning smoking in all indoor public places. The maximum fine for violations is 200 RMB.
• Shanghai: In 2017, the "Shanghai Public Places Tobacco Control Regulations" were revised, expanding the scope of smoking bans indoors and outdoors. E-cigarettes are also included in the regulations.
• Shenzhen: Known as the "strictest tobacco control city," it prohibits smoking in indoor public places, public transportation, and some outdoor areas (such as areas around schools).

3. Special Venue Considerations

• Restaurants and Bars: Some traditional restaurants or small bars may tacitly allow smoking. It is recommended to check if there are no-smoking signs or inquire with the waitstaff beforehand.
• Transportation: High-speed trains, airplanes, and long-distance buses are completely smoke-free (designated smoking areas are available at high-speed train platforms).

Two: Non-Smoking Room Situations in Hotels

Chinese hotels generally offer non-smoking room options, but the following details should be noted:

1. International Chain Hotels and High-Star Hotels

• Clear Classification: Brands such as Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental often have non-smoking floors or rooms. You can directly select the "non-smoking room" option when booking.
• Cleaning Standards: Ashtrays will be removed from the rooms, and air purification measures will be adopted.

2. Economy Hotels and Local Brands

• Possible Mixed Room Types: Some hotels may not strictly distinguish between smoking and non-smoking rooms. It is necessary to make a note or confirm by phone during booking.
• Language Communication Tip: You can clearly request a "Non-smoking room" through English emails or translation apps.

3. Special Case Handling

• Room with Lingering Smoke Smell: If you find that the room has a smoke smell, immediately contact the front desk to request a replacement or deep cleaning.
• Backup Plan: Hotel resources in popular tourist cities (such as Beijing and Shanghai) are tight, so it is recommended to book 1-2 months in advance to ensure the availability of non-smoking rooms.

Three: Practical Suggestions

1. Booking Confirmation Techniques
2. Use platforms like Trip.com, Booking.com to filter for the "non-smoking room" label.

3. Contact the hotel in advance to send a confirmation email and keep a written record.

4. Dealing with Smokers in Public Areas

5. Politely remind others "No smoking here, please."

6. Look for places marked with "smoke-free environment" signs (common in shopping malls, chain coffee shops).

7. Avoiding Sensitive Venues

8. Avoid smoking near religious sites (such as temples) or around hospitals, which may cause cultural conflicts.

Four: Other Precautions

• E-cigarette Regulations: Some cities (such as Hangzhou, Hong Kong) include e-cigarettes in their smoking ban policies, so it is advisable to check local regulations in advance.
• Smoking Area Inquiry: Large airports and high-speed train stations usually have independent smoking rooms, which can be located via service desks or electronic maps.