Local Customs & Etiquette in Puyang, China

1. Puyang Temple Etiquette

Respect temple rules such as dressing modestly and removing shoes before entering.

Modesty: Dressing appropriately shows respect for the temple and its cultural significance.
Removing Shoes: This practice is common in many Chinese temples, demonstrating reverence and cleanliness.
Silence: Whispering or speaking softly helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere within the temple.

Use chopsticks properly and wait for others to start eating before digging in.

Chopstick Use: Knowing how to use chopsticks efficiently makes dining a smoother experience.
Waiting to Start: This shows consideration for others and is an important part of Chinese etiquette.
Table Manners: Be aware of other table manners such as not resting your chin on your hands or pointing with chopsticks.

Bow slightly and shake hands while saying Ni Hao (hello). Avoid touching people on the head.

Bowing: A simple bow shows respect for the person you are greeting.
Handshake: Shaking hands is common when meeting someone for the first time.
Avoiding Head Touching: Heads are considered sacred in Chinese culture, so avoid any form of head touch.

Avoid giving clocks or anything sharp as gifts. Wrapping gifts is important.

Clock Avoidance: Clocks are associated with death in Chinese culture, so they should be avoided as gifts.
Wrapping Gifts: Properly wrapped gifts show thoughtfulness and care.
Sharp Object Avoidance: Giving sharp objects is considered inauspicious as they symbolize cutting ties.

Arrive punctually, offer gifts, and maintain a formal demeanor.

Punctuality: Being on time demonstrates respect for the other party.
Offering Gifts: Giving a small gift shows appreciation and goodwill.
Formality: Maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor is crucial during business meetings.

Give up your seat to the elderly, avoid eating or drinking, and keep noise levels low.

Seat Etiquette: Offering your seat to the elderly shows respect for elders.
Food and Drink: Avoid eating or drinking on public transport to keep it clean and comfortable for others.
Noise Levels: Speak softly to maintain a peaceful environment on the transport.

Remove shoes upon entering, help with meal preparation, and accept gifts graciously.

Removing Shoes: This shows respect for the home and its cleanliness.
Helping with Meal Prep: Offering help in the kitchen is a sign of goodwill and appreciation.
Accepting Gifts: Accept gifts graciously, but do not open them immediately to show modesty.

Dress appropriately, respect local customs, and participate in activities.

Appropriate Dress: Wear clothing that is modest and respectful during village festivals.
Respecting Local Customs: Follow the local customs to show respect for the community and their traditions.
Participating in Activities: Joining in activities is a way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Bargain politely, respect vendors' wares, and avoid touching food items.

Polite Bargaining: Negotiating prices shows your intent to buy but should be done politely.
Respecting Vendors' Wares: Treat vendors and their goods with respect to maintain a positive shopping experience.
Avoiding Food Touching: Not touching food items shows consideration for the vendor and maintains cleanliness.

Pour tea for others, accept refills graciously, and clean up after yourself.

Pouring Tea for Others: This demonstrates hospitality and respect.
Accepting Refills Graciously: Accepting refills is a sign of appreciation for the host's hospitality.
Cleaning Up After Yourself: Leaving the tea house clean and tidy shows consideration for others.

Buy incense or joss paper, follow offering procedures, and be respectful.

Buying Incense or Joss Paper: Offerings show respect for the deities and are an important part of temple etiquette.
Following Offering Procedures: Properly offering incense or joss paper ensures a peaceful and respectful experience.
Respectfulness: Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor when visiting temples.

Respect local customs during celebrations, offer gifts, and participate in activities.

Respecting Local Customs: Follow the local customs to show respect for the community and their traditions.
Offering Gifts: Giving gifts is a way to express goodwill during local celebrations.
Participating in Activities: Joining in activities helps you immerse yourself in the local culture and celebrate together.

Carry tissue paper, flush after use, and wash your hands.

Carrying Tissue Paper: Tissue paper is necessary in many public restrooms due to the lack of toilet paper.
Flushing After Use: Always flush after use to keep the bathroom clean and hygienic.
Washing Hands: Washing hands is essential for personal hygiene and prevents the spread of illnesses.

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially elders or monks.

Asking Permission: Respecting people's privacy is important when taking photographs.
Elders and Monks: Always ask permission before taking photos of elders or monks out of respect for their positions.
Respecting Cultural Sites: Take care when photographing cultural sites to maintain their beauty and significance.

Accept invitations graciously, bring a small gift, and follow local customs during the event.

Gracious Acceptance: Accepting an invitation shows respect for the host's hospitality.
Bringing a Small Gift: A small gift expresses appreciation and goodwill towards the host.
Following Local Customs: Following local customs during the event ensures a smooth and respectful experience.