Local Customs & Etiquette in Jilin, Jilin, China

All Topics about Jilin All Cities in China

1. Jilin's Bowing Culture

Deeply rooted tradition of bowing as a form of greeting and respect. Bowing angle depends on the level of respect.

Depth of Bow: 45 degrees for casual acquaintances, 90 degrees for friends and colleagues, and 180 degrees for elders or superior
Duration of Bow: Hold the bow until the other person finishes theirs to show mutual respect.
Bowing in Business: Businessmen often bow more deeply than in casual settings to demonstrate sincerity and respect

Traditional tea ceremony involving precise movements and etiquette, offering a chance to connect with locals.

Order of Pouring: The host pours tea first for the guest, symbolizing hospitality.
Proper Teacup Handling: Hold teacup by its handle and never rest it on its rim.
Tea Selection: Choose a locally produced tea to show appreciation for local culture

Food is often shared communally. Chopsticks should not be left standing vertically in the bowl.

Chopstick Use: Hold chopsticks with a loose grip and use them to scoop food, rather than stab.
Table Manners: Chew with your mouth closed, slurping soup is acceptable but not noodles.
Order of Eating: Start with the food furthest from you and work your way around the table

Alcohol is an integral part of social gatherings. Toast with a smile and empty your glass in one go.

Toasting Etiquette: Make eye contact with the person you're toasting and clink glasses gently.
Alcohol Selection: Beer, baijiu (Chinese liquor) and rice wine are common choices. Ask for recommendations.
Pace of Drinking: Drink at the same pace as others to maintain harmony and avoid embarrassment.

Gifts are usually exchanged during festivals or special occasions. Avoid giving gifts with four or nine items as they have negative connotations.

Gift Choices: Choose gifts that show respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Wrapping a Gift: Wrap gifts in red or yellow paper as they symbolize luck and prosperity.
Gift Reciprocation: Reciprocate the gift-giving gesture if you receive a gift, even if it's small.

Greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Ni Hao' (Hello) or 'Xin Chao' (Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening) as appropriate.

Time of Day: Use the correct greeting according to the time of day for a more authentic interaction.
Politeness Level: Add 'Xie Xie' (Thank you) or 'Baobiao' (Please) as appropriate to show politeness.
Recognizing Elders: Address elders with the honorific titles 'Laoshi' (Teacher), 'Guoshu' (Doctor), or 'Shifu' (Master) to show respect.

Dress conservatively to respect local customs. Modest clothing is appreciated in public places.

Covering Up: Women should wear long skirts or pants and avoid low-cut tops.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring Jilin's scenic spots.
Local Fashion Trends: Stay updated on the latest local fashion trends to blend in with the locals.

Remove shoes before entering a home and offer gifts such as fruits or flowers.

Shoe Removal: Leave your shoes at the entrance to avoid soiling the floor.
Seating Arrangement: Follow the host's instructions on where to sit, usually the oldest or most respected person sits in the best seat.
Table Manners: Eat slowly and courteously, and avoid criticizing food or manners.

Haggle prices at local markets to get the best deals. Be respectful and fair during negotiations.

Bargaining Tactics: Start by offering a lower price, but be prepared to pay a reasonable amount.
Understanding Prices: Learn about the local market prices to avoid overpaying.
Patience: Be patient during negotiations, as vendors may not immediately accept your offer.

Stand on the right side of escalators to let others pass and give up your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers.

Escalator Etiquette: Stay to the right when using escalators to allow faster-moving people to pass.
Queueing: Join the queue and wait your turn, especially during peak hours.
Giving Up Your Seat: Offer your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers to show respect and kindness.

Remove shoes before entering temples and shrines. Show respect by bowing or ringing the bell.

Shoe Removal: Leave your shoes at the entrance to avoid soiling the sacred ground.
Bowing or Kneeling: Bow or kneel to show respect when entering a temple or shrine.
Offerings: Make an offering, such as incense sticks or small coins, if you wish.

Ask for permission before taking someone's photo. Respect private and sacred spaces.

Permission: Ask for permission before taking someone's photo, especially of children.
Respecting Privacy: Do not take photos in private homes or areas without permission.
Sacred Spaces: Avoid taking photos in temples, shrines, and other sacred spaces without permission.

Participate in local festivals such as the Changbai Mountain Ice and Snow Festival or the Songyuan Watermelon Festival.

Respecting Traditions: Learn about the history and significance of each festival before participating.
Dressing Appropriately: Dress according to the customs and traditions associated with each festival.
Cultural Exchange: Participate in cultural activities to learn more about the local culture.

Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Use the correct currency for payments and avoid bargaining in banks.

Tipping: Tip small amounts to show appreciation for good service.
Currency Usage: Use the Chinese Yuan (CNY) for all transactions, not other currencies or traveller's cheques.
Bargaining in Banks: Avoid bargaining in banks and use exact change when possible.

Queue patiently for street food and use chopsticks correctly. Be aware of common allergens.

Queuing: Join the queue and wait your turn when buying street food.
Chopstick Use: Hold chopsticks with a loose grip and use them to scoop food, rather than stab.
Allergen Awareness: Ask about common allergens before ordering street food.