Regarding the safety of tap water in China

1. Basic Water Quality Standards
   China's tap water treatment complies with national standards and theoretically meets the standard for direct consumption. However, due to the following reasons, it is not recommended to drink untreated tap water directly:
2. Old pipeline issues: In some old urban areas or older buildings, there may be risks of secondary pollution in the water supply pipelines.
3. Chlorine residue: Water treatment plants add chlorine for disinfection, which may cause a slight chlorine taste.

4. Individual adaptability: Foreign tourists may experience gastrointestinal discomfort due to water and soil incompatibility.

5. Safe Drinking Suggestions

6. Boil before drinking: Most hotels provide electric kettles, and boiling can ensure safe drinking (better taste after cooling).
7. Use portable water filters: International brand water filter bottles or cartridges (such as Brita) are suitable for long-term travelers.
8. Hotel drinking water systems: Some high-end hotels offer direct drinking water systems; please confirm with the front desk.

How to purchase bottled water

1. Purchase channels
2. Convenience stores: Such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, etc., which operate 24 hours and cover all cities.
3. Supermarkets: Carrefour, Walmart, CR Vanguard, etc., larger supermarkets where prices are more affordable (about 1-3 yuan/500ml).
4. Vending machines: Common in subway stations, scenic spots, office buildings, supporting Alipay/WeChat Pay by scanning codes.

5. Online platforms: Meituan, Ele.me can deliver bottled water (requires binding a mobile phone number and payment method).

6. Brand Recommendations

7. Common brands: Nongfu Spring, C’estbon, Ganten, Ice Dew.

8. High-end choices: Evian, Perrier available in import supermarkets or hotels.

9. Precautions

10. Check for Chinese labels: Bottles should indicate "purified drinking water" or "natural mineral water".
11. Inspect seal integrity: The cap should not be opened, and the bottle should not show signs of deformation.
12. Avoid overpriced water at tourist attractions: It is suggested to buy in advance in urban areas.

Other Practical Tips

1. Free Drinking Water
2. Airports, high-speed rail stations, museums, and other public places usually have drinking water dispensers (you need to bring your own cup).

3. Restaurants can provide free hot water ("hot water" pronunciation: rè shuǐ).

4. Environmental Protection Suggestion

5. You can carry reusable water bottles (such as Hydro Flask), and some shopping malls and scenic spots provide free water refill points.

6. Emergency Situations

7. If there are water quality issues, you can call 12315 (consumer complaint hotline) or contact the hotel front desk for assistance.