You Won’t Believe These Things Banned in China

China is one of the most-visited countries in the world, a cultural marvel where you can tour ancient grottoes, scale soaring mountains and eat some of the best street food on the planet. A trip to the country is a wonderful idea — but it’s also good to know in advance about some popular items the world’s most populous country has banned. 

From books to TV shows to certain kinds of plants, the Chinese government’s roster of forbidden items and activities is surprisingly robust. Even some celebrities (sorry, Justin Bieber!) can’t set foot there.

Here are some things Westerners might not know are banned in China. 

In April 2019, China banned video games focused on three of the most popular video game tropes: violence, sex and gambling.

Popular titles on the blacklist include the uber-gory Mortal Kombat and Resident Evil. Not all hope is lost for gamers, though; some sneaky online vendors are trying to bypass the ban on these games by disguising them with (hilariously bad) hand-drawn cover art. 

Also not allowed? Games showing the Chinese government in a negative light, or touching on the country’s less-than-savory imperial history.

Since China is home to 20 percent of the global population, it’s expected that most video-game developers will fall in line to censor aspects of their games and abide by the strict regulations. 

Don’t expect to stream some of your favorite shows in China. Actually, nix Netflix from your plans altogether.

The video-streaming service is currently blocked from Chinese IP addresses. Instead, Chinese people must go to Chinese-owned streaming sites like Sohu TV, iQiyi and Youku.

Back in 2014, Chinese government regulators also yanked some popular American TV shows off Chinese streaming services, including “NCIS,” “Big Bang Theory” and “The Good Wife.” The decision, which caused an uproar from TV fans, was never explained and seemed arbitrary, especially since far more salacious shows like “House of Cards” remained available to watch.

TV programs and other entertainment in China are regulated by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television. The administration has made other unpopular decisions, like banning reality television shows from featuring children of celebrities.

The ban caused the cancellation of a popular Chinese reality show called “Where Are We Going, Dad?”