Minding Your Manners: 4 Tips On China Etiquette

One of the most common topics our guides are questioned on while they are on trips is etiquette. While a friendly smile and a xie xie (thank you in Mandarin) go a long way, it’s always nice to have an idea about basic etiquette while you’re traveling through China.

• Tipping

Tipping isn’t a part of traditional Chinese culture. It isn’t rude, but it’s also not expected in most everyday situations. You don’t tip when taking a taxi, dining at a local restaurant, or grabbing a coffee, for example. 

In major international cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Macao, however, norms are shifting–especially in businesses that cater to international travelers. In these settings, tipping is becoming more accepted, and sometimes even customary.

For more details on the tipping culture in China, check out our pre-departure guide. We have a whole section dedicated to it!

• Exchanging Business Cards

Business cards should be handed out with both hands, with your name facing the person you are giving your card to. As a sign of respect to your new friend, you should read their card and then tuck it away safely somewhere (as opposed to just stuffing it in your back pocket).

• Toasting

When toasting in China, it’s polite to clink your glass below the rim of the other person’s, also as a sign of respect. You’ll read a lot about drinking and toasting at Chinese banquets, but in my experience, unless you are conducting business, this is not usually an issue.

• Eating

Dining is a big part of Chinese culture. In China, dining etiquette emphasizes respect, especially toward elders and hosts. Let the host lead you to your seat. The most honored guest typically sits facing the entrance. It is common for Chinese to share the dishes, and there is a pair of serving chopsticks for that purpose. Never point with the chopsticks or stick them upright in rice, for this resembles incense sticks used in funerals and is considered bad luck. Try a little bit of everything and eat at a moderate pace. In some regions, leaving a little food on your plate indicates that the host has been generous and gave you enough food, while in others it may be seen as rude. 

If you’re interested in this topic, check out our complete guide to dining in China. 

 

Have questions about China do’s and don’ts? Think we left out a valuable Chinese etiquette rule? Let us know in the comments below.