The United States Embassy in Beijing says that Chinese police have advised hotels that Islamic extremist elements could be planning to attack four and five star hotels in China sometime over the course of the next week.

Chinese authorities have assured the US Embassy that they are taking appropriate security measures and investigating the possible threat thoroughly.

The US Embassy is telling American citizens visiting Chinese four and five star hotels that they should review their plans carefully, remain vigilant with regard to their personal security, and exercise caution.

China's Foreign Ministry has made no immediate comment.