Local Customs & Etiquette in Guiyang, Guizhou, China

All Topics about Guiyang All Cities in China

1. Qingyang Palace Etiquette

Respect the historical significance of Qingyang Palace. Remove shoes before entering and maintain a quiet atmosphere.

Historical Significance: Recognize the palace as a symbol of Guiyang's rich history
Quiet Atmosphere: Maintain respect for those who come to appreciate its serene environment
Shoe Removal: Follow the custom to preserve the palace's cleanliness and tradition

Show respect by offering incense sticks at Shuanglong Temple. Gently place them in the incense burner.

Respect for Religious Sites: Recognize the cultural significance of Buddhist practices
Incense Offering: Participate in a traditional way to show reverence and prayers
Gentle Placement: Handle the incense sticks carefully to avoid disturbing others

At Qianling Snack Street, share dishes and use chopsticks properly. Avoid using your left hand.

Shared Dishes: Embrace the local custom of sharing food among friends and family
Chopstick Etiquette: Follow proper chopstick usage to facilitate a comfortable dining experience
Avoid Left Hand: Respect local customs by not using your left hand, as it's considered impolite in Chinese culture

Negotiate prices when shopping at Jiaxiu Temple Street markets. Be friendly but firm in your bargaining.

Bargaining Culture: Understand that haggling is a common practice for market vendors
Friendly Negotiations: Maintain a friendly rapport with the vendor to secure a fair price
Firm Bargaining: Remain firm in your negotiation but be willing to compromise

Tip restaurant staff or hotel workers if you are satisfied with their service. A modest amount is appreciated.

Service-based Tips: Give tips based on the quality of the service provided
Modest Amount: Offer a reasonable amount that reflects your level of satisfaction
Appreciation for Service: Express gratitude for the hard work and kindness shown by staff

Use chopsticks correctly and show appreciation for your meal. Do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice.

Correct Chopstick Usage: Follow the local custom of using chopsticks gracefully
Appreciation for Meal: Show gratitude by expressing your satisfaction with the food
Avoid Rice Superstition: Respect local beliefs by not sticking chopsticks vertically into rice

Wait patiently for the bus or metro. Give up your seat to the elderly, disabled, and pregnant women.

Patience: Practice patience while waiting for public transportation
Seat Consideration: Offer your seat to those who need it most, demonstrating kindness and respect
Crowd Navigation: Navigate crowded spaces with courtesy and care for others

When greeting someone, use the formal title 'Xian' followed by their last name. Shake hands or bow slightly.

Formal Titles: Address individuals using a respectful and appropriate title
Handshake or Bow: Choose either a handshake or bow depending on the situation and personal preference
Respectful Greeting: Greet others in a respectful and friendly manner, reflecting the local culture

When giving gifts, avoid items related to funerals or mourning. Gifts should be wrapped neatly and presented with two hands.

Avoid Mourning Items: Avoid gift-giving anything associated with death or funerals
Neat Wrapping: Wrap gifts neatly and carefully, demonstrating thoughtfulness
Two-handed Presentation: Present the gift with both hands, showing respect for the recipient

Remove your shoes at the entrance and offer small gifts like fruits or sweets. Avoid criticizing decorations.

Shoe Removal: Respect the homeowner's space by removing your shoes
Small Gifts: Offer small gifts to show appreciation for the invitation
Decoration Respect: Appreciate the homeowner's personal style and avoid negative comments

Always arrive on time for appointments. Being punctual demonstrates respect and consideration.

Follow your host's lead in seating arrangements, eating, and drinking. Offer compliments for the meal.

Following Lead: Observe and follow your host's cues during the meal
Compliments: Express appreciation for the effort put into preparing the meal
Reciprocal Hospitality: Offer to host your guests in return when possible, fostering a spirit of reciprocity

Participate in local festivals like the Qingyang Miao Festival. Respect traditions and customs.

Respect for Traditions: Celebrate the local culture by participating in traditional festivals
Understanding Local Customs: Learn about the customs and traditions associated with each festival
Cultural Exchange: Contribute to cultural exchange by sharing your own experiences as well

Relax and enjoy the tea house ambiance. Order a variety of teas and snacks to share.

Ambiance Appreciation: Enjoy the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of traditional tea houses
Variety Sampling: Try different teas and snacks to appreciate the local flavors
Sharing Food: Share your selection of teas and snacks with others, encouraging a sense of camaraderie

Respect privacy when taking photos. Always ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites.

Respect Privacy: Ask for consent before taking someone's photo to respect their privacy
Sacred Site Consideration: Show reverence for sacred sites and avoid disturbing them with photography
Permission Granted: Only take photos when given permission, ensuring a positive experience for all parties involved