Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was reported for the first time in 1970s. Since then, ERCP has become an indispensable procedure in the diagnosis and management of a variety of biliary and pancreatic disorders. The main purpose of Chinese ERCP guideline is to precisely define the clinical indications of ERCP. In this guideline, all recommendations were based on reviewed studies and graded on the strength of supporting evidence by GRADE criteria. ERCP is particularly appropriate in the management of patients with biliary obstruction caused by choledocholithiasis and other benign or malignant disorders. Meanwhile, a variety of benign or pancreatic disorders can be diagnosed and treated with ERCP. Plastic or metal biliary and pancreatic stents are primarily used to establish patency of an obstructed bile or pancreatic duct. Last but not least, it is very important to fully understand the potential complications of ERCP. Early recognition and immediate management of adverse events are critical to reduce procedure related morbidity and mortality.