
Local Customs & Etiquette in Shanwei, China
1. Shanwei Greeting Custom
A traditional way of greeting with handshake and a slight bow, showing respect for the other person.
- Importance of Respect: Shows acknowledgement of another person's presence
- Slight Bow: Indicates humility and politeness
- Handshake: Establishes a friendly connection
2. Dining Etiquette
Use chopsticks to eat and keep them parallel on the table when not in use.
- Chopstick Usage: Chopsticks are used for all meals
- Table Manners: Keeping chopsticks parallel shows courtesy
- Dining Culture: Understanding local dining customs can enhance the dining experience
3. Gift Giving Customs
Gifts are often wrapped in red or gold paper and should be given with both hands.
- Red or Gold Wrapping: Symbolizes luck and prosperity
- Two-Handed Gift Presentation: Shows respect and sincerity
- Avoiding Certain Gifts: Avoid giving clocks, umbrellas, or anything sharp as they have negative connotations
4. Elderly Respect Customs
Always stand up when an elderly person enters the room and address them respectfully.
- Standing Up: Shows reverence for elders
- Respectful Address: Acknowledges their age and wisdom
- Maintaining Distance: Giving space to elders is a sign of respect
5. Temple Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering temples and bow slightly as a sign of reverence.
- Removing Shoes: Shows respect for the sacred space
- Bowing: Indicates humility and reverence
- Silence in Temples: Respects the peacefulness of the temple environment
6. Public Transport Etiquette
Stand when a seated person enters and offer your seat to elderly or disabled individuals.
- Standing When Entering: Shows consideration for others
- Offering Seat: Helps those in need of seating comfort
- Keeping Personal Space: Respects others' personal space and comfort
7. Business Meeting Etiquette
Shake hands, address the eldest or highest-ranking person first, and present business cards with both hands.
- Handshake: Establishes a friendly connection
- Rank and Age Respect: Addresses respect to elders and those of higher rank
- Presenting Business Cards: Shows professionalism and courtesy
8. Visiting a Home
Remove shoes upon entering, offer gifts, and accept refreshments gracefully.
- Removing Shoes: Shows respect for the home environment
- Offering Gifts: Shows thoughtfulness and appreciation
- Accepting Refreshments: Shows politeness and gratitude
9. Festivals and Celebrations
Participate in the annual Dragon Boat Festival by eating Zongzi and racing dragon boats.
- Eating Zongzi: A traditional food offering during Dragon Boat Festival
- Dragon Boat Racing: Celebrates the life and death of Qu Yuan, a famous poet
- Understanding Local Significance: Enhances cultural understanding and appreciation
10. Public Behavior Etiquette
Avoid using mobile phones in public places such as temples and during meals.
- Avoiding Mobile Phone Use in Temples: Shows respect for the sacred space
- Avoiding Mobile Phone Use during Meals: Maintains a courteous and considerate dining experience
- Respect for Others' Privacy: Privacy is valued in Shanwei culture
11. Tips and Service Charge
A service charge is usually included in the bill, but additional tips are appreciated.
- Service Charge Included: Simplifies payment process
- Additional Tips Appreciated: Rewards good service and encourages future excellent service
- Understanding Local Customs: Promotes positive relationships with local business owners
12. Public Holidays
Celebrate national holidays such as Chinese New Year and National Day with family and friends.
- Chinese New Year Celebration: Celebrates the beginning of the lunar new year
- National Day Celebration: Celebrates the founding of the People's Republic of China
- Family and Friend Gathering: Promotes unity, harmony, and happiness among family members
13. Local Market Etiquette
Bargain prices politely and respect the vendor's initial price.
- Bargaining: A common practice to negotiate prices
- Politeness: Maintains a respectful and friendly atmosphere
- Respecting the Vendor's Price: Acknowledges the vendor's effort and cost
14. Taxi Etiquette
Round up fares to make it easier for taxi drivers and avoid small change disputes.
- Rounding Up Fares: Makes payment easier for taxi drivers
- Avoiding Small Change Disputes: Promotes a smoother and more pleasant taxi experience
- Tipping: Appreciates good service and encourages future excellent service
15. Local Dress Code
Dress conservatively and modestly to show respect for the local culture.
- Conservative Dress: Respects the local culture and customs
- Modest Attire: Shows respect for local traditions
- Understanding Local Sensibilities: Promotes a positive and culturally sensitive travel experience