What Every Visitor Should Know About Chinese Customs and Manners

1. First Meetings and Forms of Address

Handshakes Are Standard
In business or formal settings, handshakes are the most common way to greet someone. A firm but moderate handshake is perfect.

How to Address People

• Typically, use a person’s title plus their surname (e.g., “Manager Wang”) or surname plus Mr./Ms. (e.g., “Mr. Li”).
• For elders or older relatives, honorifics like “Teacher,” “Auntie,” or “Uncle” are common.
• Family members are addressed with specific titles rather than by their given name, such as “Dad,” “Mom,” “Big Brother,” or “Second Sister.”

2. Small Talk and Communication

Common Icebreakers
Questions like “Have you eaten?” or “Where are you going?” are typical greetings and not meant literally.

Direct vs. Indirect Communication
Chinese communication can be subtle, especially when expressing disagreement or refusal. Avoid saying “no” directly; instead, use gentle, polite phrases.

Avoid Public Confrontation
Openly contradicting someone, especially in public, may be seen as rude. Maintain a respectful tone.

Sensitive Topics to Avoid
Politics, religion, personal income, and marital status are generally off-limits during first meetings.

3. Dining Etiquette

Seating Arrangements
Elders or honored guests usually sit facing the entrance, with others seated according to rank or relationship.

Don’t Start Eating Too Soon
In formal settings, wait for the host or elder to begin before you start.

Toasting Culture
At formal meals, raising your glass shows respect. Keep your glass slightly lower than the other person’s as a sign of politeness.

Table Manners

• Never stick chopsticks upright into a rice bowl—it’s considered unlucky.
• Use communal chopsticks or serving spoons when sharing dishes.
• Keep noise to a minimum; quiet dining is customary.
• Avoid ordering individually at group meals—opt for shared dishes instead.

4. Gift-Giving Etiquette

When to Give Gifts
Gifts are common during visits, holidays, or as a token of thanks.

Packaging & Symbolism
Red and gold are lucky colors. Avoid gifts like clocks (sounds like “end”), pears (sounds like “separation”), or umbrellas (sounds like “scatter”).

Receiving Gifts
It’s polite to initially decline a gift once or twice before accepting, which shows humility.

5. Everyday Habits

Punctuality Matters
Being on time is highly valued in business; lateness is seen as disrespectful.

Maintain Personal Space
While friends may touch arms or shoulders, first-time meetings generally require some distance.

Respect Elders
Offer your seat on public transport and use polite forms of address.

Avoid Excessive Public Affection
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many settings, including museums, restaurants, and scenic spots.

6. Other Cultural Tips

“Face” Culture
Respect for dignity and social status is crucial. Avoid embarrassing others publicly.

Praise and Humility
When praised, many Chinese respond modestly rather than accept compliments outright.

Photography Etiquette

• Respect religious and cultural sites. Some areas, like temples, may prohibit photography.
• Elders or honored guests usually stand in the front row in group photos as a sign of respect.

Color Symbolism

• Red symbolizes luck and happiness.
• White is associated with funerals and mourning. Avoid wearing white at celebrations or red at funerals.