Religion Issue

Q: May I bring my Bible or other religious materials with me to China?
A: Yes, but only for personal use. The Chinese government does not allow the distribution of religious materials to Chinese citizens without permission. Quantities of Bibles, or religious materials printed in Chinese, could be seized at customs.

Q: Since China is a Communist country, how free are people there to follow a religion?
A: Chinese law protects individual religious freedom. Places of worship and religious gatherings, however, must be registered with the government, and citizens cannot proselytize without permission. Although China is officially an atheist state, more than 20 percent of the population adheres to some faith. Most follow traditional Chinese folk religion or Confucian beliefs. About seven percent are Buddhist, two percent Taoist, and two percent Muslim. Approximately one percent of China's population is Christian, and most belong to the Chinese Catholic Church. Besides traditional Chinese temples, most large cities in China have at least one Catholic and one Protestant church, which are open to the public. Mosques are also quite common.

Q: Can I discuss my religion in China?
A: Yes. China has no laws prohibiting individuals from private discussion of religious ideas that do not malign the Chinese government. People may show a polite interest or even vigorous curiosity about your beliefs. Because most people have not learned much about religion, however, some people may consider your beliefs a little strange. Foreigners in China are not allowed to organize religious gatherings that include Chinese citizens without the approval of the government, but yon are free to hold a worship service or meeting in your hotel room with other American families during your trip.