
Local Customs & Etiquette in Dandong, Liaoning, China
1. Bowing Greeting
A traditional Chinese greeting where people bow slightly. This is a common gesture in formal settings and between elders.
- Respect: Shows respect to the person being greeted
- Formality: Used in formal and social settings
- Age Difference: Elders are bowed to more than younger individuals
2. Taboo on Taboos
Avoid discussing topics like age, income, and misfortune. These are considered personal and inappropriate.
- Personal Privacy: Respects the privacy of others
- Politeness: Prevents awkward or offensive conversations
- Sensitivity: Avoids causing discomfort to others
3. Gifts Giving Etiquette
Gifts should be wrapped and of even number. Avoid white or brown gifts as they are associated with funerals.
- Symbolism: Colors and odd numbers have specific meanings
- Gift Wrapping: Wrapped gifts are more respectful
- Avoiding Funeral Gifts: White and brown gifts are not appropriate
4. Offering Tea
Offering tea is a sign of hospitality. It's customary to refuse the first offer and accept on the second offer.
- Hospitality: Shows host's warm welcome
- Politeness: Refusing the first offer is a polite way to accept
- Respect: Accepting tea shows respect for the host
5. Toast Making
Making a toast is a significant part of Chinese banquets. Each person takes turns to propose a toast.
- Honor and Respect: Toasts are made in honor of someone or something
- Order: Each person takes turns to propose a toast
- Unity: Signifies unity and friendship among participants
6. Chopstick Etiquette
Using chopsticks requires a specific technique. Never stick them vertically in rice as it's used during funerals.
- Technique: Requires skill and coordination
- Cultural Significance: Vertical chopsticks have a specific meaning during funerals
- Hygiene: Always keep them clean and don't touch the bottom of the bowl
7. Dining Table Manners
At a meal, place your chopsticks horizontally on the table when not in use. Never leave them sticking vertically in rice.
- Respect: Shows respect during meals
- Hygiene: Keeps chopsticks clean and prevents contamination
- Awareness: Be aware of others during meals
8. Dining with Elders
When dining with elders, always let them serve themselves first and eat after they have started.
- Respect: Shows respect to the elders
- Honor: Elders are honored in Chinese culture
- Politeness: Waiting to eat shows politeness
9. Queuing Etiquette
Always stand in a queue and wait your turn. Pushing or cutting in line is considered rude.
- Order: Maintains order and fairness
- Patience: Requires patience to wait your turn
- Courtesy: Shows courtesy towards others
10. Tipping Customs
Tipping is not customary in Dandong. Service charges are usually included in the bill.
- Service Charges: Service charges are often included in the bill
- No Expectation: Tips are not expected or required
- Appreciation: Tipping can show appreciation but is not necessary
11. Public Transport Etiquette
Give up your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or disabled individuals. Avoid talking loudly on phones.
- Respect: Shows respect to elders and vulnerable individuals
- Courtesy: Prevents disturbance to others
- Politeness: Avoids causing discomfort to fellow passengers
12. Dress Code for Temples
Visitors are required to dress modestly when entering temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Respect: Shows respect for religious sites
- Modesty: Dressing modestly is a sign of humility
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respects the local religious customs and traditions
13. Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photographs of people, especially elders or children. Respect privacy.
- Respect: Shows respect for individuals' privacy
- Courtesy: Asks permission before taking photographs
- Ethics: Respects the ethical guidelines of photography
14. Food Taboos
Avoid eating pork during Dragon Boat Festival and eating shark fin soup.
- Respect for Traditions: Shows respect for traditional beliefs
- Avoiding Offensive Foods: Avoids foods associated with negative events or symbols
- Festival Customs: Respects the customs and traditions of each festival
15. Language Considerations
Mandarin is the most widely spoken language in Dandong. However, some locals may understand Korean due to its proximity to North Korea.
- Communication: Understanding local language facilitates communication
- Adaptability: Being adaptable to different languages is important
- Respect: Speaking the local language shows respect for the culture