Local Customs & Etiquette in Zhaoqing, China

1. Phoenix Mountain Tea Culture

Learn about the ancient tea-making traditions on Phoenix Mountain, where locals harvest and process tea leaves by hand.

Unique Harvesting Method: Unlike machine-harvested teas, Phoenix Mountain tea is picked by hand to preserve quality.
Artisanal Processing: The tea leaves are sun-dried and processed without the use of machinery.
Cultural Significance: This traditional tea culture is deeply rooted in Zhaoqing's history.

Respect the sacred Dragon King Cave by maintaining silence and not taking any offerings from the altar.

Silence and Respect: Visitors should maintain silence to show respect for the spiritual significance of the cave.
No Offerings: Taking offerings from the altar is considered disrespectful and forbidden.
Historical Importance: The cave is a sacred place in local Dongson religion, dating back thousands of years.

Avoid feeding the monkeys on Coconut Island as it encourages bad habits and can be dangerous.

No Feeding: Feeding the monkeys can lead to aggressive behavior.
Safety First: Monkeys may bite or scratch if provoked, so keep a safe distance.
Preserve Habitat: By not feeding the monkeys, we help preserve their natural habitat and behavior.

Haggle for bargains at Panyu Night Market while respecting the seller's minimum price and being friendly.

Bargaining Etiquette: Start your offer lower than what you are willing to pay, but be reasonable.
Respect Sellers: Always maintain a friendly and respectful attitude towards sellers.
Unique Products: Find unique, local products that you won't find elsewhere.

Savor traditional Zhaoqing rice noodles by slurping loudly and mixing ingredients to taste.

Slurping Custom: Slurping shows appreciation for the deliciousness of the noodles.
Mixed Ingredients: Mix different ingredients like chili oil, vinegar, and soy sauce to taste.
Authentic Experience: Experience a truly local dish that is popular throughout Zhaoqing.

Visit Longmen Temple with respect, removing shoes before entering and not taking photographs during worship.

Removing Shoes: Show respect by removing your shoes before entering the temple.
No Photography: Photographs during worship are considered disrespectful.
Historical Significance: Longmen Temple is one of Zhaoqing's oldest and most important Buddhist sites.

Observe safety rules when renting a boat at Jinji Lake, including wearing life vests and staying within designated areas.

Wear Life Vest: Life vests are provided for your safety. Wear them while boating.
Stay in Designated Areas: Stay within the designated boat riding areas to ensure safety and respect local regulations.
Enjoy the Scenery: Take in the beautiful scenery of Jinji Lake while boating, a peaceful and enjoyable experience.

Enjoy street food in Zhaoqing by being patient, trying new dishes, and respecting the vendors.

Patience: Street food can take time to prepare; be patient and wait your turn.
Trying New Dishes: Expand your culinary horizons by trying local dishes you've never had before.
Respect Vendors: Always show respect to the street food vendors, who work hard to serve their delicious creations.

Visit Guangning Temple with respect, removing shoes before entering and offering incense.

Removing Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering the temple as a sign of respect.
Offering Incense: Light incense sticks to show respect and make a wish.
Historical Significance: Guangning Temple is a famous Taoist temple known for its beautiful architecture and history.

Barter for goods at local markets by exchanging items of equal value.

Equal Value Exchange: Items should be exchanged based on their perceived value.
Bartering Skills: Practice your bartering skills to get the best deal.
Unique Local Products: Discover unique local products that you can't find elsewhere.

Relax and socialize at tea houses by sharing stories, sipping tea, and enjoying snacks.

Sharing Stories: Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow tea house guests.
Tea Appreciation: Savor the delicate flavors and aromas of traditional Zhaoqing teas.
Local Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the peaceful, local atmosphere of a tea house.

Respect Dongson Drum Towers by remaining quiet and not disturbing the drums during worship.

Quiet Environment: Show respect by maintaining a quiet environment around the towers.
Historical Significance: Dongson Drum Towers are an important part of local Dongson culture.
Cultural Performance: Experience the unique cultural performances held at some drum towers.

Savor local Zhaoqing cuisine by visiting street food vendors and restaurants.

Street Food Adventure: Try delicious, authentic street foods found only in Zhaoqing.
Restaurant Variety: Discover a wide variety of restaurants offering local dishes.
Culinary Exposure: Broaden your culinary horizons and discover new flavors.

Make a donation at temples to support their upkeep and receive good fortune.

Donation Support: Your donations help maintain the beauty and history of local temples.
Good Fortune: Making a donation is said to bring good fortune and blessings.
Respectful Donations: Donate respectfully, without disturbing the peace and tranquility of the temple.

Participate in local festivals by dressing up, learning traditional dances, and sampling festival foods.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Zhaoqing during local festivals.
Traditional Dancing: Learn traditional dances and perform them during festive celebrations.
Local Cuisine: Sample delicious festival foods that are only available during specific times of the year.