Local Customs & Etiquette in Shiyan, China

1. Shennong Street Night Market

Vibrant marketplace offering local street food and souvenirs. Best visited at night for a taste of Shiyan culture.

Local Cuisine: Try spicy Sichuan hotpot or delicious Shennong Street snacks.
Bargaining: Prices are negotiable, so haggle to get the best deals.
Busy Atmosphere: Be prepared for a crowded and energetic environment.

Historic Ming dynasty city wall with scenic walkways and watchtowers. Learn about Shiyan's rich history.

Architecture: Appreciate the ancient architecture while exploring the wall.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning panoramic views of the city from the watchtowers.
Local Guides: Hire a local guide for in-depth historical information.

Traditional tea houses serving authentic Sichuan tea. Learn about the local tea ceremony and enjoy a relaxing experience.

Tea Culture: Discover the rich history and significance of tea in Shiyan's culture.
Tea Preparation: Witness the intricate process of preparing and serving tea.
Relaxation: Enjoy a peaceful break from sightseeing in a serene tea house setting.

Visit ancient temples and participate in the offering ceremony. Show respect for local religious practices.

Religious Significance: Understand the importance of offerings in Shiyan's Buddhist culture.
Ceremony Participation: Participate in offering rituals with incense, fruits, and money.
Silence and Respect: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while inside the temple.

Learn calligraphy at a local studio. Follow proper etiquette and show appreciation for the art form.

Respect for Artists: Treat your instructor with respect and kindness.
Proper Tools: Use the provided tools to ensure cleanliness and maintain the studio's integrity.
Patience: Be patient with yourself as you learn this delicate art form.

Barter for goods at local markets. Haggle prices and build relationships with vendors.

Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to get the best deals.
Cultural Exchange: Share a bit about yourself and learn from locals during negotiations.
Understanding Value: Gain insight into the value of goods in Shiyan's marketplace economy.

Experience local festivals and observe traditional customs. Respect the community during celebrations.

Respect for Tradition: Follow the customs and traditions of each festival you attend.
Participation: Join in on local games, dances, or performances during festivals.
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid offensive actions or comments that may be considered disrespectful.

Dine in local restaurants. Follow proper table manners and show appreciation for your meal.

Table Manners: Use chopsticks correctly, eat with your mouth closed, and wait for others to start eating.
Tipping Customs: Tipping is not customary in many local restaurants. Service charges are often included.
Food Safety: Stick to cooked food and avoid dishes with undercooked meat or seafood.

Navigate Shiyan's public transportation system. Follow local etiquette and be mindful of others.

Line Forming: Queue in an orderly fashion when waiting for buses or trains.
Personal Space: Respect personal space during crowded public transportation.
Precious Belongings: Keep valuables close and be aware of pickpocketing in busy areas.

Greet locals using the appropriate greeting. Use respectful language and maintain eye contact.

Respectful Language: Address elders with polite titles and use formal language when speaking.
Handshake or Bow: Use a handshake or bow, depending on the situation and the person you're greeting.
Body Language: Maintain eye contact during conversations and use polite gestures to show respect.

Give and receive gifts in a proper manner. Understand the significance of certain gifts in Shiyan's culture.

Significance of Gifts: Avoid giving gifts associated with misfortune or bad luck.
Gift Wrapping: Wrap your gift neatly and present it with care to show thoughtfulness.
Gift Reciprocation: Reciprocate gifts with a token of appreciation or offer to treat the giver to a meal.

Staying with a local family? Show gratitude and respect for their hospitality. Follow house rules and customs.

Gratitude: Express your thanks for their generosity.
House Rules: Follow the family's rules and ask questions if you are unsure of anything.
Respectful Behavior: Be mindful of your actions and maintain a respectful demeanor at all times.

Navigate public restrooms with ease. Understand local customs and facilities.

Toilet Paper: Bring your own toilet paper, as it may not always be provided.
Waste Disposal: Dispose of waste properly and use the designated bins.
Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in restrooms by keeping the area tidy after use.

Enjoy street food with confidence. Understand how to safely eat from roadside vendors.

Food Safety Guidelines: Look for vendors with clean facilities, fresh ingredients, and hot food.
Cooked Food: Avoid undercooked or raw food items.
Hygiene Practices: Choose vendors who practice good hygiene and follow sanitation guidelines.

Capture stunning moments while being mindful of local customs. Respect people's privacy and cultural sensitivities.

Respectful Photography: Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children.
Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid photographing sensitive or religious sites without permission.
Public Spaces: Photograph public spaces, landmarks, and scenic views as they are typically open for photography.