Recently updated on July 24th, 2023 at 10:58 am
Every country has its own unique customs and culture, and China is no different. Understanding the traditions and etiquette of China will make your trip so much more rewarding, so we’ve put together some common Chinese customs and traditions to know before you go. From chopsticks etiquette to gift-giving superstitions, here are some of the major customs to remember on your trip to China.
How to use chopsticks
Chopsticks are the most common eating utensil in China, but there’s a few Chinese customs to be aware of while you’re learning how to use chopsticks. Firstly, you should never leave chopsticks upright in a rice bowl, as it looks similar to a ritual made as an offering to the dead. You should also never make gestures with your chopsticks in your hands, as this is considered impolite in Chinese culture.
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Burping is polite
In China, burping isn’t considered rude. In fact, it’s actually a sign of gratitude to the cook and satisfaction with the meal. It’s a great compliment, so don’t be surprised when you hear a burp or two at the dining table.
Drinking hot water
You’ll quickly get used to drinking hot water when in China. The locals drink dozens of cups of hot water every day as they believe it can prevent diseases and cure illnesses. Expect to have your cup refilled with hot water many times in Chinese restaurants. This is the same for tea. Hosts will ensure that teacups never go empty and when they refill your cup, you should tap the table to show thanks. This Chinese tradition is known as tea tapping.
Down your drink after saying “ganbei”
Downing your drink isn’t just for 21st birthdays in China. When you hear “Ganbei” (cheers) and glass clinking, you should drink up all the alcohol in your glass, instead of just taking a sip. If you don’t down it all, it’s considered impolite in China. If you can’t drink alcohol, don’t panic. There’s a Chinese saying, ““Replace the wine with tea (Yi Cha Dai Jiu)”, so everyone can drink after saying “Ganbei!”
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Spitting in public is common
Spitting is another bodily function that is considered totally normal to do in public in China. It isn’t considered rude at all to spit while around others, whether it’s on the street or indoors. While it may be a bit unusual to see at first, remember that our differences are what make every culture so unique. Plus, the Chinese think it’s just as odd to watch you blow your nose into a hanky or tissue and put it back in your pocket!
Never share a pear
This is a superstitious Chinese custom, based on homophones. The Chinese phrase for “dividing a pear” is “Fen Li” (分梨), which sounds similar to “分离” which translates to “departure” in Chinese. This is a bad omen in China, so it’s best to only share around your apples and oranges.
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Your gift will be refused
Don’t be offended if you offer someone a gift and they turn it down. It’s a Chinese custom to refuse the gift at least one time, and up to three times. Your gift will be politely refused at the first offer, and will eventually be accepted after a few tries.
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Superstitions about gifting clocks
While we’re on the topic of gifts, it’s important to note that you should never give a clock to a Chinese person as a gift. This is another homophone-related tradition. The phrase “giving clock” in Chinese is “Song Zhong” (送钟) which sounds similar to “送终” meaning ““looking after a dying person” or “burying a person.”
Don’t accept a compliment too easily
While it might seem a little odd to refuse a compliment, you should always protest or rebuff a compliment in China. This is because accepting a compliment right from the start can be seen as a sign of arrogance or vanity.
Tipping can be offensive
Remember that tipping isn’t the norm everywhere. In China, tipping is usually unnecessary and may even be considered rude. Tips are generally only given at hotels or on tours.
You might feel like a superstar
It’s common for Chinese people to ask foreigners for a photo. Although the big Chinese cities receive many visitors every year, many locals are still fascinated by foreigners. So don’t be surprised if you’re approached by many locals asking for a selfie! Just smile and enjoy the ride…
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Business cards require both hands
Even if you’re not going on a business trip to China, it’s handy to know this Chinese custom to avoid offending any locals. If someone offers you their business card, you should take it with both hands. If you are giving someone your business card, you should also give it to them with both hands. This shows respect to others, especially if you’re giving or receiving a card from someone older than you.
Passionate gardeners
If you love gardening, you’ll be amazed when you see the cities in China. No matter where you are, from apartment blocks to residential suburbs to small roadside strips, you’ll see all kinds of fruit, vegetables and flowers growing that were planted by ordinary Chinese people. There’s even a joke that goes around that planting trees is in their DNA in China.
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You might see the face-kini at the beach
A pale complexion is highly desired in Chinese culture and many locals go to great lengths to protect their skin from the sun. A recent trend turns this up a notch – the face-kini, a full face mask that protects the skin from both the sun and jellyfish stings. It looks like a balaclava and can be a little terrifying at first sight, but the designs have become much more glamorous in recent years! The face-kini first began on the beaches of Qingdao in 2004 and has become popular across the country ever since.
Napping on the street
The Chinese are the kings and queens of napping. It’s a very common activity and you’ll often see locals sleeping in the car, on public transport or in unusual places on the street. There’s even a whole website – Sleeping Chinese – dedicated to the country’s famous habit of sleeping in odd places.
Giving hongbao during the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is one of the most important and happiest times of year for Chinese people. No matter where you come from, most families give out hongbao (lucky money) to the children. Hongbao are red envelopes stuffed with brand new bills, and they’re given out by the elders of the family. They are meant to symbolise luck and blessings for the year ahead and you’ll likely see lots of red symbolism if you’re visiting China during the wonderful Spring Festival.
Eating dumplings during the Winter Solstice
If you’re visiting China during the Winter Solstice, expect dumplings to be the star of the show. Nearly everyone eats dumplings on the Winter Solstice, as legend says if you don’t, your ears will be frozen off by the cold wind! You’ll see all the dumpling restaurants packed with customers and delivery drivers zooming around with dumpling orders. Be sure to try some of these delicious treats no matter what time of the year you visit China!
Do you know any interesting Chinese customs or traditions? Let us know in the comments below!