Local Customs & Etiquette in Qiqihar, China

1. Harbin Ice and Snow Festival Etiquette

Respect local artisans' work at the festival; Avoid touching sculptures; Be patient during crowded days.

Respect for Artisans: Recognize the effort and skill put into creating the ice sculptures
Preservation of Art: Help maintain the integrity of the festival's artwork for future generations
Patience and Courtesy: Avoid pushing or cutting lines to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors

Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife; Stay on marked trails; Do not feed animals.

Wildlife Protection: Ensure the well-being and natural behavior of local wildlife
Respect for Nature: Maintain a harmonious balance with the environment
Safety First: Adhere to safety regulations to ensure personal and collective safety

Use chopsticks correctly; Wait for the host to start eating; Offer compliments on food.

Chopstick Mastery: Learn to use chopsticks properly to enjoy local dishes
Cultural Exchange: Share your own dining customs and learn from the locals
Politeness and Respect: Show courtesy by waiting for the host to start eating and offering compliments

Avoid giving items in sets of four; Gifts should be wrapped neatly; Cash gifts are considered impolite.

Avoidance of Fours: Avoid gift sets containing four items, as the number four sounds like 'death' in Chinese
Presentation Matters: Wrap gifts neatly to show thoughtfulness and care
Appropriate Gifts: Choose meaningful or useful gifts that reflect the recipient's interests

Use polite language; Bow slightly when meeting elders; Handshake is also acceptable.

Politeness: Show respect by using polite language and gestures
Adaptability: Understand that local customs can vary, and be flexible in your approach
Respect for Elders: Show extra respect to elders by bowing when meeting them

Ask for help if unsure; Stand on the right side of escalators; Wait patiently for the bus.

Humility: Ask for help when needed to show openness and humility
Courtesy on Escalators: Stand on the right side of escalators to allow faster-paced individuals to pass
Patience: Wait patiently for the bus or train, avoiding pushing and shoving during crowded times

Haggle politely; Be aware of item quality before bargaining; Show appreciation for the vendor's time.

Politeness in Negotiation: Negotiate prices politely, avoiding aggression or rudeness
Quality Assessment: Assess the quality of items before bargaining to avoid purchasing low-quality products
Appreciation for Vendors: Show gratitude for the vendor's time and effort by being courteous and respectful

Join in the dragon boat races; Wear traditional clothing if possible; Show enthusiasm and sportsmanship.

Cultural Integration: Participate in local festivities to immerse yourself in the culture
Respect for Traditions: Understand and appreciate the historical significance of the festival
Teamwork and Sportsmanship: Show teamwork and good sportsmanship during dragon boat racing events

Remove shoes before entering; Bow as a sign of respect; Avoid loud noises.

Respect for Religious Spaces: Show reverence for religious sites by following local customs
Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of the religious beliefs and practices of the local community
Peaceful Reflection: Use temples and shrines as opportunities for quiet reflection and self-discovery

Wear layers to adapt to temperature changes; Wear a scarf in winter for warmth and style; Use local fabrics when possible.

Adaptability: Dress according to the weather conditions to ensure comfort
Cultural Identity: Incorporate local fabrics and styles into your wardrobe as a way of showing respect
Comfortable Style: Choose fashionable outfits that are also comfortable for daily activities

Accept tea with both hands; Sip slowly and mindfully; Thank the host.

Respect and Gratitude: Show respect by accepting the tea with both hands and expressing gratitude
Mindfulness and Appreciation: Savor each sip of the tea, appreciating its taste and cultural significance
Reciprocity: Offer to host a tea ceremony in return as a gesture of friendship

Choose popular songs; Take turns singing; Show appreciation for others' performances.

Song Selection: Select well-known songs to ensure enjoyment for everyone
Turn-Taking: Take turns singing and give others an opportunity to perform
Encouragement and Support: Offer encouragement and support to fellow singers, creating a positive atmosphere

Wear a towel; Respect others' personal space; Avoid staying too long.

Hygiene and Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness by wearing a towel in the sauna
Respect for Privacy: Give others personal space during their relaxation time
Moderation and Safety: Limit sauna time to avoid overheating or discomfort

Close the lid after use; Carry tissues for personal hygiene needs; Clean up after yourself.

Cleanliness and Hygiene: Maintain cleanliness to ensure a sanitary environment
Courtesy: Show courtesy by cleaning up after yourself
Respect for Facilities: Treat bathroom facilities with respect, ensuring they remain usable for others

Avoid loud conversations; Use indoor voices on public transportation; Stand in line patiently.

Courtesy and Politeness: Show courtesy by being considerate of others around you
Respect for Public Spaces: Treat public spaces with respect, ensuring they remain pleasant for all users
Patience and Tolerance: Maintain patience during busy or crowded times, avoiding unnecessary frustration