Local Customs & Etiquette in Jinchang, Gansu, China

1. Jinchang Salt Tea Custom

Local tea served salty instead of sweet, reflecting the region's traditional flavor preferences.

Unexpected Taste: Prepare for a unique taste experience different from other Chinese teas.
Historical Significance: Understand the historical context of salt tea production in Gansu Province.
Social Etiquette: Know when and how to offer and accept salt tea during social interactions.

Respectful behavior is expected when visiting the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery outside of Tibet.

Dress Code: Wear appropriate clothing, including removing hats and shoes.
Photography Rules: Understand the photography restrictions within the monastery.
Offerings and Donations: Learn about the appropriate offerings and donation practices in the monastery.

Following local customs when dining at popular noodle streets ensures an enjoyable experience.

Ordering Procedure: Understand the unique ordering process in self-service noodle shops.
Sharing Food: Get familiar with the local custom of sharing food, especially during social gatherings.
Tipping: Learn about tipping etiquette in local eateries.

The salute is a traditional greeting used during religious ceremonies.

Gesture and Posture: Master the correct salute gesture and posture.
Religious Significance: Understand the religious symbolism behind the salute of the Three Protectors.
Contextual Use: Know when and where it is appropriate to perform this salute.

Use common local greetings and farewells for a more authentic interaction.

Common Phrases: Learn some basic greetings and farewells in the local dialect.
Politeness Level: Recognize the appropriate level of politeness based on social context.
Non-Verbal Cues: Observe and mimic local non-verbal cues during greetings and farewells.

Haggling is expected in local markets. Familiarize yourself with acceptable pricing ranges.

Average Prices: Research common market prices before bargaining.
Politeness in Negotiation: Maintain a polite and respectful tone during negotiation.
Knowing When to Walk Away: Recognize when it's time to walk away from a negotiation.

Experience the warm and welcoming hospitality of Tibetan locals.

Offering Tea: Expect to be offered tea or salted butter tea when visiting a local's home.
Gift-giving Customs: Learn about appropriate gift-giving customs and etiquette in the region.
Reciprocity: Understand that hospitality is often reciprocal in nature.

Respect the religious and cultural significance of this historic mosque.

Follow local customs for an unforgettable sunrise viewing experience at Qinghai Lake.

Witnessing the Scenery: Experience a unique and beautiful sunrise over the lake.
Respectful Behavior: Maintain respectful behavior towards the local environment and wildlife.
Safety Considerations: Follow safety guidelines, especially during early morning hours.

Understand the local customs when attending this vibrant cultural event.

Respectful Audience Behavior: Maintain respectful audience behavior during performances.
Dress Code: Wear appropriate clothing that respects the occasion and cultural context.
Photography Rules: Follow photography restrictions during performances to avoid disturbances.

Participate in a Tibetan healing ceremony with respect and openness.

Cultural Sensitivity: Maintain cultural sensitivity during the ceremony.
Participation Etiquette: Follow proper etiquette when participating in the healing ceremony.
Healer-Patient Interaction: Observe and respect the interaction between the healer and patient.

Respect local customs by dressing appropriately during festivals.

Traditional Attire: Wear traditional attire or appropriate clothing that respects the occasion.
Cultural Appropriation: Avoid cultural appropriation by wearing dresses that are inappropriate or disrespectful.
Respect for Elders: Dress modestly and with respect for elders during festivals.

Navigate the bustling Silk Road Bazaar with grace and respect.

Bargaining Skills: Develop effective bargaining skills for a successful shopping experience.
Respectful Interaction: Interact respectfully with local shopkeepers during negotiations.
Awareness of Scams: Be aware of potential scams and negotiate prices fairly.

Experience the warm hospitality of a Tibetan-style tent.

Offering Tea: Expect to be offered tea or salted butter tea when visiting a Tibetan-style tent.
Gift-giving Customs: Learn about appropriate gift-giving customs and etiquette in the region.
Reciprocity: Understand that hospitality is often reciprocal in nature.

Use Tibetan prayer wheels with respect and mindfulness.

Proper Technique: Spin the wheel from bottom to top using one or both hands.
Mindful Intention: Hold a peaceful and mindful intention while spinning the prayer wheel.
Respect for Religious Symbols: Treat Tibetan prayer wheels with reverence and respect.