Chinese etiquette: Most common mistakes

5/6/2013 3:22:51 PM

In addition to the other answers, I would like to share some of my recent experience.

In the subways of the large cities, one is of course expected to offer your seat to older people or pregnant women. In contrary to the Western subways I’ve been in, it is also expected that you offer your seat to small children. (This probably has something to do with the crowdedness of most subways).

Most temples I’ve visited (Buddhist temples), have very large doorsteps at the entrance. Always step over it, no matter how large the doorstep is. I’ve seen tourists sit on this, but this is clearly not appreciated (even though they won’t tell you).

In restaurants it is very well accepted to shout to waiters to get their attention (fúwùyuán!). You will see it everywhere around you, so it is easy to pick up.

I was quite surprised that all restaurants/shops/etc by default don’t pay taxes on the sells. You can ask for another check (fapiao). This makes sure the restaurant pays the taxes (the price does not change). The Chinese government makes these checks into scratchcards, such that you can earn some money. Some restaurant will offer you a free drink if you do not ask for the fapiao.

3/4/2013 2:47:23 PM

I’m Chinese so I can probably tell you this. As you’re a foreigner they know already that you’re not used to their culture. So, be yourself and you’ll be fine. If anything, I guess it must be you to prepare for culture shock. As most of my foreigner friends complain about the spitting and toilets. So be prepared. Another thing is they smoke everywhere, if you’re a non smoker it might not be good for you.

And what you said is right, if you want to show respect to somebody and if the other person is older than you, lower your glass is the right thing to do. If you’re older than the other person you should be fine. And don’t drink first unless you’re offered to.

When you want to say hello to anyone. In English you’d say “How are you?” but in Chinese you would say “Have you eaten anything?”, however it’s not actually a custom so say “hello” is also fine.

And like most Asian countries, always show respect to elders.

You don’t have to tips at the restaurant, if you tip the waitress might return the tips.

And this one might be wierd to you, don’t finish the plate always let the host get the last piece.

Also, if the other person offers to pay for the meal let s/he pay, fair share is not always nice and the other person might lose face which is a really big deal.

Credit:stackoverflow.com‘

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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