Chinese culture in existence today actually dates back many centuries so much of their modern day etiquette is tied in with their centuries old tradition which could appear strange to a western visitor. However, people who familiarize themselves with Chinese culture, etiquette and language should find it an excellent place to spend their holidays.
Banquet Etiquette
Banquettes in China can be huge with many dishes but you are obviously not expected to go ahead and eat everything which is served. As a guest and also a westerner you will be served before anyone else and so if you decline to try something this will embarrass your host and he may probably then insist that you eat it.
Bargaining Etiquette
The country is well known for its large cluster of open air markets where bargaining is considered standard procedure. However, bargaining in China needs to be done in a friendly manner by first developing some kind of relationship with the shopkeeper. You need to refrain from shouting, arguing or pointing which is bad etiquette in China. Just keep your smile and cool.
Chopsticks
Westerners are not afraid of pointing stuff at people including the chopsticks they have in their hand but this is something which is not good etiquette in China. You should also avoid stabbing at the food as if you were eating with toothpicks and never lick your chopsticks. Placing your chopsticks upright in your bowl is not a good idea as that is how the Chinese honor the dead.
Raising Your Voice
Yelling at somebody just because they have made a mistake is not considered good etiquette and will make the person feel like you are depriving them of their dignity which means that they will not take responsibility for the issue. You should always smile and try to keep things friendly while you persistently ask them to sole your issue.
Respect for the Old
Like in America it is fine for a person to open the door for an elderly person or give up their seat for them. However, many times Chinese youngsters both male and female will walk up to you and offer you their arm to assist you with a flight of stairs. This gesture should not be viewed as they seeing you as an infirm person but rather just a gesture of politeness and so they should be thanked accordingly.
Banquet Etiquette
Banquettes in China can be huge with many dishes but you are obviously not expected to go ahead and eat everything which is served. As a guest and also a westerner you will be served before anyone else and so if you decline to try something this will embarrass your host and he may probably then insist that you eat it.
Bargaining Etiquette
The country is well known for its large cluster of open air markets where bargaining is considered standard procedure. However, bargaining in China needs to be done in a friendly manner by first developing some kind of relationship with the shopkeeper. You need to refrain from shouting, arguing or pointing which is bad etiquette in China. Just keep your smile and cool.
Chopsticks
Westerners are not afraid of pointing stuff at people including the chopsticks they have in their hand but this is something which is not good etiquette in China. You should also avoid stabbing at the food as if you were eating with toothpicks and never lick your chopsticks. Placing your chopsticks upright in your bowl is not a good idea as that is how the Chinese honor the dead.
Raising Your Voice
Yelling at somebody just because they have made a mistake is not considered good etiquette and will make the person feel like you are depriving them of their dignity which means that they will not take responsibility for the issue. You should always smile and try to keep things friendly while you persistently ask them to sole your issue.
Respect for the Old
Like in America it is fine for a person to open the door for an elderly person or give up their seat for them. However, many times Chinese youngsters both male and female will walk up to you and offer you their arm to assist you with a flight of stairs. This gesture should not be viewed as they seeing you as an infirm person but rather just a gesture of politeness and so they should be thanked accordingly.
About the Author:
Andrea Witcomb is a China travel expert authoring on behalf of Travel Visa Pro. If the visa process is confusing a China visa, make sure you contact the visa experts at Travel Visa Pro.
