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Cultural Etiquette in China

Navigate Chinese customs and traditions with confidence and respect

Essential Etiquette Guidelines

Business & Social Greetings

Do's

  • Slight bow or nod when meeting
  • Use both hands when exchanging business cards
  • Address people by title + surname
  • Wait to be invited to sit

Don'ts

  • Avoid firm handshakes initially
  • Don't use first names immediately
  • Don't point with one finger
  • Avoid touching without permission

Dining Etiquette

Do's

  • Wait for host to start eating
  • Try a bit of everything offered
  • Leave a little food on your plate
  • Use both hands to receive drinks

Don'ts

  • Don't stick chopsticks upright in rice
  • Don't flip fish on your plate
  • Don't finish all the food (implies more needed)
  • Don't refuse hospitality repeatedly

Gift Giving

Do's

  • Wrap gifts nicely in red or gold
  • Present and receive with both hands
  • Bring small gifts from your country
  • Give even numbers of flowers (except 4)

Don'ts

  • Avoid white or black wrapping
  • Don't give clocks or sharp objects
  • Don't open gifts immediately when received
  • Avoid the number 4 (unlucky)

Public Behavior

Do's

  • Keep voice down in public places
  • Queue patiently and orderly
  • Dress modestly in temples
  • Show respect for elderly

Don'ts

  • Don't display strong emotions publicly
  • Don't wear shoes inside homes/temples
  • Don't take photos without permission
  • Don't discuss sensitive political topics

🗣️ Useful Polite Phrases

你好
Nǐ hǎo
Hello
General greeting
谢谢
Xiè xiè
Thank you
Express gratitude
不好意思
Bù hǎo yì si
Excuse me/Sorry
Polite apology
请
Qǐng
Please
Polite request
对不起
Duì bu qǐ
I'm sorry
Formal apology
再见
Zài jiàn
Goodbye
Farewell

🏮 Deep Cultural Insights

Face (面子 - Miànzi)

The concept of "face" is crucial in Chinese culture - avoid causing embarrassment publicly

Key Tips

  • Give praise publicly, criticism privately
  • Allow people to save face in mistakes
  • Show respect for hierarchy and age

Guanxi (关系)

Personal relationships and connections are very important in Chinese society

Key Tips

  • Build relationships before business
  • Maintain long-term connections
  • Show genuine interest in people

Harmony (和谐 - Héxié)

Chinese culture values group harmony and avoiding direct confrontation

Key Tips

  • Be indirect in disagreements
  • Find compromise solutions
  • Avoid causing disturbance

🎎 Remember: Respect & Patience

Show Respect

  • Learn basic greetings
  • Respect hierarchies and age
  • Follow local customs

Be Patient

  • Cultural differences are normal
  • Communication may take time
  • Embrace learning opportunities

Stay Open-minded

  • Ask questions politely
  • Observe and adapt
  • Enjoy cultural exchange