Local Customs & Etiquette in Sha Tin, Hong Kong

1. Sha Tin MTR Station Etiquette

Understand the crowded rush hours and queue up orderly at the ticket gates.

Rush Hour Crowds: During peak hours, the station can get very busy. Be prepared for large crowds.
Queuing Up: Locals are disciplined about queuing up and it is important to follow this custom.
Ticket Gates Efficiency: MTR gates close quickly, so be ready with your Octopus card or tickets before approaching.

Bargaining is not common but it's acceptable to ask for discounts in small shops.

Discount Negotiation: While prices are typically fixed, asking for a discount can sometimes work.
Shopping Etiquette: Be respectful and polite when interacting with shopkeepers.
Bargaining Culture: While not common, some shops may allow for negotiation. Be aware of the local market prices before asking.

It is common to share dishes with fellow diners and tipping isn't necessary.

Sharing Dishes: Dishes are often meant for sharing, especially in group settings.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected or required in most restaurants.
Dining Etiquette: Be respectful, patient and wait for others to finish before starting your meal.

Remove shoes before entering a temple and dress modestly when visiting temples.

Shoes Removal: Removing shoes is essential to show respect in temples.
Modest Dress Code: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for the temple.
Temple Etiquette: Be quiet, respectful and follow any signs or instructions when visiting a temple.

Avoid seating in chairs reserved for the elderly and give them priority when using public transport.

Reserved Seats: Seats are often marked as reserved for the elderly. Respect these signs.
Public Transport Priority: Give your seat on public transport to an elderly person if it is available.
Respect for Elders: Showing respect towards the elderly is deeply ingrained in local culture.

Keep noise levels low, especially in parks and public areas during quiet hours.

Quiet Hours: Public spaces often have designated quiet hours. Be mindful of these times.
Noise Levels: Maintain a low noise level to respect others' peace and tranquility.
Public Space Etiquette: Follow signs, rules, and instructions when using public spaces.

Street food vendors usually wrap your food in paper to avoid direct contact.

Food Wrapping: Street food vendors typically wrap your food in paper for hygiene purposes.
Eating on the Go: It is common to eat street food while walking or standing, not sitting down.
Food Safety: Always ensure that the vendor follows good hygiene practices before purchasing.

Give up your seat for pregnant women, the elderly or disabled, and do not eat on public transport.

Seat Sharing: Share seats with others during crowded times if necessary.
Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful and considerate attitude on public transport.
Food Prohibition: Avoid eating on public transport to keep the environment clean and pleasant.

Respect local traditions during festivals by dressing appropriately and following customs.

Appropriate Attire: Dress according to the occasion and follow any dress codes during public events.
Cultural Respect: Show respect for local customs, traditions and practices during festivals.
Event Guidelines: Follow any instructions or guidelines provided at public events.

Avoid talking loudly on your phone and keep personal belongings secure.

Phone Usage: Keep conversations quiet or use headphones to avoid disturbing others.
Belongings Security: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in shopping malls.
Courtesy: Be courteous to shop staff and fellow customers while shopping.

Avoid loud noises during late hours and respect neighbors' privacy.

Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially after 10 pm.
Neighbor Privacy: Be considerate of your neighbors' privacy and avoid disturbing them unnecessarily.
Community Living: Participate in community events and activities when possible to foster good relationships with neighbors.

Wait for taxis to stop before trying to enter and tipping isn't necessary.

Entering the Taxi: Wait for the taxi to come to a complete stop before entering.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is not expected or required in taxis.
Courtesy: Be polite and respectful to the taxi driver during your journey.

Give up your seat for pregnant women, the elderly or disabled and keep noise levels low.

Seat Sharing: Share seats with others during crowded times if necessary.
Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful and considerate attitude on public transport.
Noise Levels: Avoid talking loudly or using earphones without headphones to respect others' peace and quiet.

Wipe down equipment after use and be mindful of personal space.

Equipment Hygiene: Wipe down equipment after use to maintain cleanliness.
Personal Space: Respect others' personal space and avoid coming too close during workouts.
Gym Etiquette: Follow any rules or guidelines provided by the fitness center.

Respect nature and wildlife while hiking, and keep noise levels low.

Nature Preservation: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment.
Wildlife Safety: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and do not disturb them.
Noise Levels: Keep noise levels low to avoid scaring wildlife or disturbing other visitors.