Local Customs & Etiquette in Shanghai, China

1. Greeting Etiquette

When meeting someone in Shanghai, a light handshake is common, and you may slightly bow your head as a sign of respect. This helps in making a good first impression.

Respectful Gesture: Bowing your head acknowledges the person's presence.
Handshake Firmness: Keep it gentle; too firm can be seen as aggressive.
Eye Contact: Maintain moderate eye contact to show engagement but avoid staring.
Greeting Order: Greet the oldest or most senior person first.
Use of Titles: Address people by their title and surname unless invited to do otherwise.

2. Gift Giving

When visiting someone's home, a small gift like fruit or tea is appreciated. This gesture builds goodwill and is a sign of respect.

Gift Wrapping: Use red or gold paper as they are colors of good luck.
Avoid Clocks: Clocks are taboo gifts, associated with death.
Presentation: Offer gifts with two hands to show respect.
Timing: Present gifts at the end of the visit, not the beginning.
Gift Refusal: Expect initial polite refusal and insist gently.

3. Dining Invitations

Accepting a meal invitation is seen as an honor, and you should try a bit of everything. This behavior shows respect to the host.

Arrival Time: Arrive on time or slightly early to show politeness.
Seating: Wait for the host to direct your seat, as it shows hierarchy.
Toasting: Join in the toasts when beverages are raised.
Chopstick Etiquette: Do not leave chopsticks upright in a rice bowl.
Thank the Host: Acknowledge the host’s generosity before leaving.

4. Public Behavior

Avoid loud conversations or public displays of affection in Shanghai as they are considered rude. This shows cultural awareness and respect.

Voice Volume: Keep conversations at a considerate volume.
Personal Space: Respect others' space, especially in crowded areas.
Queue Behavior: Be patient and wait your turn in lines.
Public Transportation: Offer your seat to elderly or pregnant passengers.
Mobile Phone Use: Use headphones for calls or media.

5. Bargaining in Markets

Bargaining is expected in markets and can enhance your shopping experience. This helps to get the best price and is a common practice.

Politeness: Start with a smile, and maintain politeness throughout.
Initial Offer: Offer half of the quoted price as a starting point.
Non-Verbal Cues: Watch the seller's body language for cues.
Walk Away Technique: Walking away might lead to a better offer.
Avoid Aggression: Stay calm and pleasant regardless of the outcome.

6. Visiting Temples

Dress modestly and behave quietly when visiting temples in Shanghai. This shows respect for local religious practices.

Dress Code: Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Photography: Avoid taking photos unless permission is granted.
Offertory Etiquette: Follow instructions on where to leave offerings.
Footwear: Remove shoes if required before entering sacred areas.
Silence: Maintain silence or speak softly.

7. Queueing Manners

In busy places like train stations, standing in line properly is expected. This shows respect for others and maintains order.

Forming Lines: Stand directly behind the person in front of you.
Respecting Turn: Patiently wait for your turn.
Space Awareness: Keep an appropriate distance from others in line.
Gates and Doors: Let people exit before you enter.
Avoid Cutting: Cutting in line is highly frowned upon.

8. Greetings via Business Cards

Exchanging business cards is a standard practice during business meetings. This establishes a professional relationship and shows respect.

Two-Hand Presentation: Present and receive cards with both hands.
Immediate Study: Take a moment to read and appreciate the card.
Card Placement: Place it on the table or in a case, never in a pocket.
Language Consideration: Ensure both English and Chinese are printed.
Functional Design: Keep cards clean and undamaged.

9. Elevator Etiquette

In Shanghai, people follow specific practices for elevator use. This shows an understanding of local norms.

Entry and Exit: Allow people to exit before entering.
Floor Space: Stand towards the back if entering first.
Button Responsibilities: If near the controls, offer to press buttons.
Crowding Consideration: Avoid crowding the entrance.
Speaking: Keep conversations quiet to respect others.

10. Giving Up Seats

Offering your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or those who need it on public transport is expected. This kindness enhances social harmony.

Observation: Stay aware of those who might need your seat.
Prompt Offer: Offer your seat as soon as you notice someone in need.
Cultural Respect: Such gestures are highly appreciated and show respect.
Avoid Presumption: Avoid assuming someone’s need for a seat.
Thank You: A smile and a nod suffice if they accept.

11. Street Crossing

Pedestrians are expected to adhere to proper crossing signage for safety. This prevents accidents and shows compliance with local laws.

Use Crosswalks: Cross at designated pedestrian crossings.
Wait for Signals: Move only on the green light and ensure traffic has stopped.
Eye Contact: Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you.
Alertness: Remain vigilant as some vehicles might not stop.
Group Crossing: Stay together if crossing with a group for safety.

12. Restaurant Tipping

While not customary, leaving a small tip for excellent service can be appreciated. This acknowledges good service in a way that isn't expected.

Amount Guide: Tips are not necessary but rounded-up bills are fine.
Discretion: Hand the tip directly to the waiter or leave on the table.
Positive Feedback: Mention why you are tipping for extra appreciation.
Cultural Awareness: Understand that tipping isn't standard in Shanghai.
Card Payment: Tips are better handled in cash.

13. Meeting Punctuality

Arriving on time for meetings and appointments is highly valued. Punctuality shows reliability and respect for others' time.

Traffic Factor: Allow extra time when traveling during rush hours.
15-Minute Rule: Arriving 10-15 minutes early is considered polite.
Communication: Inform if you are running late as soon as possible.
Preparation: Be ready for the meeting with all necessary materials.
Confirmations: Reconfirm appointments a day before.

14. Language and Communication

While Mandarin is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases in Shanghai Hua, the local dialect, can be appreciated. This effort demonstrates cultural engagement.

Common Phrases: Learn greetings and thanks in Shanghai Hua.
Tone Sensitivity: Be mindful of tone as meanings can change.
Translation Apps: Use them if needed for understanding complex conversations.
Patience: Speak slowly and clearly if language barriers exist.
Listening Skills: Pay attention to gestures and expressions for cues.

15. Exploring Tea Culture

Partaking in a traditional tea ceremony can enhance your understanding of local customs. This shows appreciation for Chinese heritage.

Ceremony Rules: Follow the host's lead on how to handle utensils.
Aroma Appreciation: Take a moment to smell the tea’s fragrance first.
First Serving: Let the host serve the first round as a sign of respect.
Sipping Style: Sip slowly to savor the flavors.
Thank You: Tap the table lightly with two fingers to show gratitude.

16. Alleyway Exploration

When exploring Shanghai’s alleys, it's polite to regard the privacy of residents. Respecting personal spaces shows consideration for locals.

Camera Use: Ask permission before photographing people’s homes.
Noise Levels: Keep voices low in residential areas.
Waste Management: Refrain from littering; use public bins.
Doorways: Avoid blocking entrances or pathways.
Interaction: Engage politely with residents if the opportunity arises.

17. Attending Cultural Performances

Observing local customs during performances like traditional Chinese opera or acrobatics enhances the experience. Respect for performers is vital.

Punctual Arrival: Arrive before the performance begins to avoid disruption.
Intermission Etiquette: Limit movement during performances to breaks.
Applause Timing: Clap after each act or song concludes.
Silence Devices: Ensure phones are silent to avoid disturbances.
Audience Dress: Dress semi-formally to show respect for the occasion.

18. Temple Serving

When engaging in temple volunteering or aid, recognizing the temple's rules is vital. It emphasizes respect and smooth collaboration.

Dress Appropriately: Adhere to dress codes that temples might have.
Role Understanding: Clearly understand your tasks before beginning.
Hierarchical Respect: Note the roles of temple staff and defer to seniors.
Responsible Behavior: Respect all sacred objects and spaces.
Communication Style: Use respectful language when addressing monks or officials.

19. Shopping Etiquette

Knowing when bargaining is acceptable prevents misunderstandings in areas like Nanjing Road. This improves shopper-seller interactions.

Encouraged Areas: Bargaining in local markets, not department stores.
Price Research: Knowing usual prices can guide your negotiations.
Friendly Haggling: Smile and remain friendly throughout negotiations.
Final Arrangements: Once agreed, follow through with the purchase.
Vendor Interaction: Respect the vendor’s time and efforts.

20. Religious Sensitivity

Honor cultural and religious diversity during visits to religious neighborhoods or sites. Understanding these nuances promotes cultural harmony.

Observance Respect: Respect ongoing religious ceremonies and processions.
Interaction Sensitivity: Interact considerately with religious figures.
Tradition Literacy: Familiarize yourself with major local festivals.
Sacred Regard: Show reverence in and around religious structures.
Dress Appropriately: Follow dress codes specific to religious sites.