The Most Ridiculous Law in China, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the law you think is the most ridiculous!

Updated on May 8, 2024 06:58

Laws are crafted to establish order and govern the behavior of the populace. However, among these laws, some stand out due to their unusual nature, eliciting reactions ranging from bafflement to amusement. In China, a country with a rich historical tapestry and a complex legal system, certain regulations might appear peculiar to residents and outsiders alike. This interactive list presents an opportunity for users to engage with and evaluate these strange laws. By voting, users contribute to a dynamic ranking that reflects collective opinions on the most absurd laws in China. The participation not only aids in gaining a broader perspective but also enriches the dialogue around legislative developments and cultural peculiarities.

What Is the Most Ridiculous Law in China?

1

52
votes
It is illegal to reincarnate without government permission

Chinese government

According to Chinese law, anyone who wishes to reincarnate must seek permission from the government. This law is aimed at preventing the Dalai Lama or other Tibetan religious leaders from being reincarnated without government approval.
The law states that it is illegal to reincarnate without government permission in China. This law is based on the belief in reincarnation in Tibetan Buddhism, and the Chinese government's attempt to exert control over the process. Reincarnation is considered a religious and spiritual practice in Tibetan Buddhism, which involves the rebirth of a soul into another body after death. The Chinese government asserts that it has the authority to regulate this process, particularly for high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist monks.

Law Number: Order No. 5 of the State Administration for Religious Affairs

Enforcement: Enforced by the government and religious authorities

Intent: To control the selection and appointment of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leaders

Target: Mainly affects Tibetan Buddhist lamas and monks

Permission Requirement: Reincarnation must be approved by the government and religious authorities
2

36
votes
It is illegal to publish information about ghosts

The Chinese government has banned the publication of any information about ghosts, superstitions, and feng shui. This law is aimed at promoting scientific knowledge and discouraging superstitions.
The law that prohibits publishing information about ghosts, also known as 'It is illegal to publish information about ghosts', is an unusual law in China that strictly forbids the dissemination of information related to ghosts, spirits, or supernatural phenomena through any form of media or publication.

Date Created: Unknown, but it is believed to have been in existence for many decades

Enforcement: The law is enforced by various government agencies, including law enforcement and media regulatory bodies

Scope: Applies to all individuals and entities within China's jurisdiction

Penalties: Violators may face fines, imprisonment, or other punitive measures, depending on the severity and circumstances of the offense

Intent: The law aims to control the spread of superstitious beliefs and prevent the creation of social instability or unrest
3

23
votes
It is illegal to wear a mask in public

In some parts of China, it is illegal to wear a mask or disguise in public. This law was introduced to curb protests and public demonstrations.
According to the law in China, it is illegal to wear a mask in public, unless an individual has a valid reason approved by the authorities. The law is intended to regulate the use of masks in public spaces and has been in effect since October 2019. It aims to discourage the disguise of identities and prevent public unrest. This law gained attention due to the outbreak of protests in Hong Kong, where some individuals wore masks to conceal their identity during demonstrations.

Date of implementation: October 2019

Exceptions: Individuals with valid reasons approved by the authorities

Motivation: To regulate the use of masks in public spaces and discourage the disguise of identities

Reason behind creation: Protests in Hong Kong where masks were used to conceal identities

Enforcement: Enforced by law enforcement agencies in China
4

9
votes
It is illegal to own more than one dog

In Beijing, it is illegal to own more than one dog. This law was introduced to reduce the number of stray dogs on the streets.
The law in China that states 'It is illegal to own more than one dog' restricts individuals from owning multiple dogs as pets.

Law name: One-Dog Policy

Enforcement: Strictly enforced

Penalties: Fines and confiscation of additional dogs

Reason: To control the population of stray dogs and maintain public safety

Implementation date: September 2006
5

11
votes
It is illegal to sell virtual currencies

The Chinese government has banned the sale of virtual currencies such as Bitcoin. This law was introduced to prevent money laundering and illegal activities.
In China, it is illegal to sell virtual currencies.

1: The law was enacted in 2013 as a response to concerns about financial instability and money laundering associated with virtual currencies.

2: The law specifically prohibits the exchange of virtual currencies for legal tender or other virtual currencies.

3: It applies to both individuals and organizations involved in the buying, selling, or exchanging of virtual currencies.

4: The law imposes fines and penalties on violators, including confiscation of illegal gains and closure of related business operations.

5: However, the law does not make it illegal for individuals to own or hold virtual currencies.
6

17
votes
It is illegal to criticize the government

Chinese government

The Chinese government has strict censorship laws that prohibit citizens from criticizing the government or spreading false information. This law is aimed at maintaining social stability and preventing dissent.
The law states that it is illegal to criticize the government in China. Any form of negative or dissenting speech against the government, its policies, or its officials is strictly prohibited.

Enforcement: The law is enforced by government agencies and can lead to imprisonment or other severe penalties for those found guilty.

Censorship: There is extensive censorship of online content and media to ensure compliance with the law.

Impact on Freedom of Speech: The law severely limits freedom of speech and expression in China.

Suppression of Dissent: The law is used to suppress political dissidents, human rights activists, and those who challenge the ruling party.

Control over Media: The government exercises strong control over media outlets, ensuring that criticism of the government is not published or broadcasted.
7

6
votes
It is illegal to use loudspeakers after 10 pm

In some parts of China, it is illegal to use loudspeakers or play music after 10 pm. This law was introduced to prevent noise pollution and disturbance to neighbors.
The law prohibits the use of loudspeakers after 10 pm in China.

Law Name: Restrictions on the Use of Loudspeakers after 10 PM

Date Created: Unknown

Jurisdiction: China

Purpose: To minimize noise pollution during nighttime hours and ensure a peaceful environment for residents.

Time Restriction: Effective from 10 pm until morning hours (exact end time may vary)
8

15
votes
It is illegal to eat on the subway

In Shanghai, it is illegal to eat on the subway. This law was introduced to prevent littering and maintain cleanliness in public transport.
The law states that it is illegal to eat on the subway in China. This means that passengers are prohibited from consuming food or drinks while riding on the subway system.

Date Created: The law was implemented in December 2013.

Enforcement: Authorities, including subway station staff and security personnel, are responsible for enforcing the law.

Rationale: The law was introduced to maintain cleanliness on the subway and prevent food spills or waste from causing inconvenience or hygiene issues.

Penalties: Offenders may be subject to a fine of up to 500 yuan ($77) or other penalties as determined by the local regulations.

Exceptions: Certain medical conditions or situations where eating is necessary for health reasons may be exempt from the law.
9

4
votes
It is illegal to collect rainwater

In some parts of China, it is illegal to collect rainwater for personal use. This law was introduced to prevent water shortage and ensure sufficient supply for agriculture and industry.
The law that states 'It is illegal to collect rainwater' in China is a widely debated and often misunderstood aspect of their legal system. Contrary to popular belief, the law does not strictly prohibit all forms of rainwater collection, but rather restricts it in certain cases.

Scope: The law applies to specific regions within China, particularly areas facing water scarcity and drought issues.

Purpose: The main objective of the law is to regulate and control water resources to ensure fair and equitable distribution amidst increasing water scarcity.

Exceptions: There are exceptions to the law. In certain cases, individuals or entities can obtain permits or agreements to collect rainwater for specific purposes, such as agricultural irrigation or emergency water supply.

Enforcement: Enforcement of the law varies across different regions in China based on local policies and regulations. Penalties for violating the law can range from fines to confiscation of illegally collected rainwater.

Water Management: The law is part of a larger water management strategy employed by the Chinese government to ensure sustainable water usage and mitigate water shortage problems.
10

15
votes
It is illegal to promote time travel in movies or TV shows

The Chinese government has banned the promotion of time travel in movies and TV shows. This law was introduced to prevent the distortion of history and culture.
The law states that it is illegal to promote time travel in movies or TV shows in China. This means that any content that involves time travel or encourages belief in it is prohibited from being shown or promoted in any form of media.

Law enforcement: Enforced by the SAPPRFT

Purpose: To maintain social stability and prevent misleading beliefs

Rationale: Time travel stories are seen as confusing and unintelligible for viewers

Penalties: Violators may face fines, production bans, or content deletion

Alternative themes: Encouragement of more realistic or historically focused content

Missing your favorite law?

Graphs

Discussion

Ranking factors for ridiculous law

The absurdity or irrationality of the law

This refers to the degree to which the law defies logic or common sense.
The degree of impact on citizens

This is about how much the law affects people's daily lives and whether it restricts their freedoms or imposes unnecessary burdens.
The historical and cultural context

Understanding the context in which the law was created and enforced can help gauge its relevance and usefulness in contemporary times.
The potential for abuse

Some laws may appear ridiculous but can be used for purposes other than their intended ones, such as to undermine liberties or suppress dissent.
The level of enforcement and adherence

A law may be ridiculous in theory, but if it is rarely enforced or widely disregarded, it may not rank as high on the list.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most ridiculous law in China. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or a law is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

6193 views
167 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

It is illegal to reincarnate without government permission
It is illegal to publish information about ghosts
It is illegal to criticize the government
It is illegal to promote time travel in movies or TV shows

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each a law once every 24 hours. The rank of each a law is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most ridiculous law in china

China is known for its rich culture and history, but it is also known for its strict laws and regulations. Some of these laws may seem absurd to outsiders and locals alike. For example, it is illegal to reincarnate without government permission, and it is a crime to insult someone online. The Chinese government has also implemented strict rules on what can be shown on television and in movies, including banning time travel and depicting ghosts or supernatural beings. While these laws may seem ridiculous to some, they reflect the government's desire to maintain social order and control over its citizens.