It’s wonderful to travel across the world and get a taste of various cultures, isn't it? China is one of the oldest civilizations in history and is an excellent place to add to your must-visit list. It has such a diverse geography (including snow mountains and harsh deserts in a single country), making it an interesting choice for travelers. But if you have no idea of anything other than the basic details of the nation, and if you plan to visit the place any time soon, it is best to gain a better understanding of the cultural etiquette of China. This way, you know what to and what not to do there, so that you have a great time visiting this wonderful nation.

The Basic Do’s

When we visit a new country, it is essential that we learn about the culturally acceptable things around there. It goes without saying that respecting and valuing other cultures as we do ours is nothing less than basic manners. So here are some of the things that you have to do from a cultural perspective when you visit China:

1. Always accept a business card with both hands

If you are visiting China as a part of a business trip, or even casually and you happen to exchange business cards, always remember to receive it with both hands. It is considered impolite in China to treat business cards casually and receive them with a single hand. Once you receive it with both your hands with a slight bow, take a second to give a quick scan to the card. And then, with a gentle smile of appreciation, put it somewhere safe. All of these things are to be done in the presence of the one who has given you the business card. You can observe that the same etiquette is followed by the natives when you give them your business card in return as well.

2. Always be on time

Different countries have different attitudes towards punctuality. When it comes to China and most Asian countries, time and punctuality are valued greatly. If you are to meet a group of friends or acquaintances for any event, make sure to be on time. It is impolite to keep them waiting. But if you are meeting them for lunch, dinner, or breakfast, make sure you are not too early either. In such circumstances, being too early means that you are there for the food alone and are eager to eat. It gives the impression that you are more interested in the food than in meeting the people. So, just to be on the safe side, be on time. Not before, and definitely not after.

3. Always try to remain calm and patient

Unlike some other nations where getting loud and angry is seen as a sign of passion and will, China does not favor this. It is said to be advisable to remain calm and composed, especially when dealing with official individuals. Raising your voice and getting angry at anything you find inconvenient might result in creating a negative impression on you and your country. Chinese people value the virtue of patience. If individuals do not get agitated easily and remain calm even when someone might ask them irritating questions (which might be a usual inquiry in their culture), they are greatly valued. There is a chance that the locals might ask you questions that might seem a tad bit personal, like your marital status or salary, but be mindful that these questions are quite commonly asked around there. It is just a way of them getting to know you.

4. Always be mindful of table etiquette

When you are at a restaurant, there are actually a couple of things you have to keep in mind. China is a nation that values its elders and gives extra emphasis to seniority. So, when at a restaurant or at any informal gathering, make sure that the eldest member of the group gets seated first. Only then are you to sit down. When we get to the part of actual eating, never use the chopsticks that you use to eat to pick food and give it to others. Use a separate chopstick for this purpose. And while we are on the topic of chopsticks, don't leave them upright on the bowl, and always refrain from tapping them on your bowl. Also, be mindful that you don't point at things using the chopsticks.

5. Always dress modestly, especially in rural areas

As I have mentioned before, China is a country that values tradition quite a lot. Although it has been quick to adopt the changes happening around them and modernize themselves, this doesn't mean that they are okay with people wearing all too exposing clothes. This is especially true in rural arrears. The same goes for public displays of affection as well. It is better to not express any PDA while you are in public spaces, especially when you are in rural areas. It goes to say that we make some effort to observe and value their culture like the natives themselves do.

The Never To Do’s

Just like there are things that are obligatory must-do, there are acts and behaviors that tourists must absolutely stay away from if they are visiting China. Let us see what these are:

1. Never split the bill

I know that it is polite and usual for people to split their bills in some pat of the world, but this does not include China. Whenever you have a gathering and have food at a restaurant, the bill is paid by the eldest person in the group. This person would most probably be the one who initiated the gathering as well. Asking them to split the bill is considered outright impolite and even disrespectful. And also, it is not necessary to tip people anywhere and everywhere. The bill will suffice. If you feel like giving a tip to people, like when they have carried your baggage for you at a hotel or airport, a modest amount will also do. You do not have to take out your calculator and do the math of tips here.

2. Never go for red ink

Whenever you are writing something down in China, make sure that you never choose red ink. It might be of no significance in other countries when you use red ink, but in China, they are used to convey bad news, correct mistakes in answer sheets, or note down the names of criminals in a list. Basically, nothing good or pleasant is conveyed using red ink in China. It is best if you do not pack a red pen while you go there, just to be safe!

3. Never go for sensitive topics

Nobody likes being criticized. Although China may have some flaws compared to the country you are from, it is impolite and disrespectful to convey that in front of the locals. You have to understand the fact that every individual is proud of their nation, and the same goes for Chinese individuals as well. It is better to refrain from sensitive topics like politics while you are in China.

4. Never undermine personal space

Make sure that you value and respect the personal space of others. Just like any other person, the Chinese also give great emphasis to their personal spaces. Violating the same can be considered outright demeaning and disrespectful. Be mindful that you never do this. But when it comes to crowded spaces, if someone gets into your personal space or you accidentally get into theirs, it is considered fine. So, keep in mind the context and circumstances before coming to a conclusion on this topic.

5. Never open gifts immediately

Gifts are an interesting area for travelers to ponder. When you receive a gift in China, please wait till you get back to your place before you open them. In some countries, it is considered polite to open the gifts in front of the giver, but this is not the case in China. Make sure to receive the gifts with both hands as well. And if you are the one giving the gifts, refrain from wrapping them in black or white colors. Go for more happy and festive colors like red.

Have a Wonderful Journey!

Now that you are well-versed in the general cultural etiquette of China, you are all set to have a great time there! If you feel like you need assistance or a helping hand when it comes to your time at the airport, make sure to keep AirportAssist.com in mind!

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