Local Customs & Etiquette in Dengtacun, Liaoning, China

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1. Dengtacun Market Etiquette

Know the proper way to negotiate prices and interact with vendors at Dengtacun market. Avoid causing offense by not haggling too aggressively.

Respectful Negotiation: Negotiating prices should be done politely and respectfully, rather than assertively.
Patience: Be patient during negotiations as vendors may initially ask for a higher price.
Understanding: Understand that haggling is an expected part of the shopping experience in Dengtacun market.

Observe proper behavior when visiting temples to avoid offending locals and showing disrespect.

Covered Shoulders: Women should cover their shoulders as a sign of respect in some Dengtacun temples.
Removing Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering certain Dengtacun temples, following local customs.
Silence and Respect: Speak quietly and maintain a respectful demeanor while in the temple.

Learn the proper way to eat street food and interact with street food vendors.

Cleanliness: Ensure that the street food vendor's workspace is clean and well-maintained.
Cash Only: Be prepared to pay in cash for street food, as credit cards may not be accepted.
Shared Utensils: Understand that utensils may not be provided and expect to share utensils with others.

Understand the customs and practices followed during meals in local restaurants.

Chopsticks Behavior: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it's associated with funerals.
Table Manners: Use chopsticks to eat noodles by holding the bundle close to the bowl and turning it rather than lifting the food to your mouth.
Accepting Food Offerings: Refuse a food offering several times before accepting it as a sign of politeness.

Learn the appropriate gifts to give and how to present them during your visit.

Avoid Taboo Gifts: Do not gift items like clocks, umbrellas, or knives, as they have negative connotations in Chinese culture.
Wrapping the Gift: Wrap your gifts attractively and present them with both hands to show respect.
Giving Money: Give money in even amounts, as odd numbers are associated with bad luck.

Learn the appropriate greetings and gestures to use when meeting locals.

Bowing: Bow slightly as a sign of respect during greetings.
Handshake or Not: A handshake is usually not expected, but can be offered if initiated by the local.
Formal Titles: Use formal titles when addressing older individuals or those in positions of authority.

Understand the significance and proper way to make a toast during celebrations.

China Cup: Pour drinks from your own cup into others' cups instead of pouring from a single shared container.
Toast Content: Toasts are usually made using alcohol, but can also be made with tea or other drinks.
Reciprocal Toasting: It is expected that each individual will return the toast when it's their turn.

Learn the appropriate behavior when visiting a local's home.

Shoes Off: Remove your shoes before entering someone's home.
Gift-Giving: Bring a small gift for the host as a sign of appreciation.
Dining Etiquette: Follow dining etiquette rules, such as not starting to eat until the host invites you.

Understand and follow local customs on public transportation.

Standing Room Only: Be prepared to stand during peak hours when seats are filled.
Personal Space: Respect personal space by avoiding physical contact with others on public transportation.
Exiting the Bus: Exit the bus only after everyone else has exited and the bus driver signals it's safe to do so.

Learn how to behave in public spaces and on the streets of Dengtacun.

Queueing: Always wait your turn in a queue, as queuing is expected in crowded areas.
Spitting: Avoid spitting on the streets, as it is considered rude and disrespectful.
Cycling Rules: Follow traffic rules when cycling, including riding on the right side of the road.

Learn how to behave during local festivals and celebrations.

Respect for Traditions: Show respect for traditional practices and customs during festivals.
Dress Code: Follow any specific dress codes or costumes required during certain festivals.
Participation: Be prepared to actively participate in festival activities, as it's expected and appreciated.

Understand the local customs and restrictions regarding photography.

Ask Permission: Always ask permission before taking someone's photo, especially in rural areas.
Respectful Photography: Be respectful when taking photos of temples or other religious sites.
Sensitive Topics: Avoid photographing sensitive subjects like military installations or political gatherings.

Learn the tipping customs in Dengtacun's restaurants and service industries.

Service Charge: Tipping is not required as a service charge is often included in the bill.
Rounding Up: If no service charge is included, round up the bill to show appreciation.
Taxi Drivers: Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Understand the customs and practices followed in local businesses.

Business Cards: Exchange business cards with a bow or handshake, and always have your card translated into Chinese.
Negotiations: Be prepared for lengthy negotiations and be patient during the process.
Gift Giving: Offer small gifts as a token of appreciation, but only after the business deal is finalized.

Understand the customs and etiquette when using internet cafés in Dengtacun.

Payment Methods: Pay for your time at an internet café either by cash or prepaid cards.
Computer Usage: Be aware that only one person should use a computer at a time.
Noise Level: Keep noise levels down and avoid loud conversations in internet cafés.