Metal Detecting in China

China’s revised Cultural Relics Protection Law, effective from March 2025, requires approval for archaeological excavations and prohibits unauthorised excavation of cultural relics underground or underwater. Archaeological work is governed by a professional authorisation framework, rather than an ordinary tourist detecting permit. I could not verify a general national permission for recreational searches limited to modern lost objects. Before bringing a detector for a planned search, ask the relevant cultural heritage authority about the activity and location, and check equipment entry requirements separately.