Local Customs & Etiquette in Xianyang, China
1. Bowing Greeting
Deeply rooted tradition in Xianyang, a bow is given as a sign of respect or apology. It's a more formal gesture than handshakes.
- Formal Greeting: Used primarily in formal situations and between elders or strangers
- Depth of Bow: The depth of the bow depends on the person's status, with deeper bows indicating greater respect
- Response: A nod or slight bow in return is an appropriate response
2. Taboo on Left Hand
Using the left hand for eating, giving money, or shaking hands is considered rude and disrespectful. Always use your right hand.
- Historical Significance: Originated from ancient times when people in China were farmers and used their left hand for unhygienic tasks
- Exceptions: Left hand can be used when cleaning oneself or handling dirty objects, but always wash hands afterwards
- Awareness: Being aware of this custom is crucial for maintaining good relationships with locals
3. Temple Etiquette
Visitors must remove shoes and hats before entering temples, whisper or not speak at all, and avoid pointing fingers.
- Respect for Religion: Shoes are removed to show respect for the sacredness of the temple
- Silence: Whispering or silence shows reverence towards the deities and promotes a peaceful atmosphere
- Body Language: Avoid pointing fingers as it's considered disrespectful and impolite in Chinese culture
4. Dining Etiquette
Use chopsticks correctly, eat everything on your plate, and never stick chopsticks upright in rice.
- Chopstick Use: Hold chopsticks with equal pressure on both ends, never twirl them
- Clean Plate: Finish all food on your plate as refusing to eat is considered wasteful
- Chopstick Taboo: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles incense sticks used at funerals
5. Gift-giving Customs
Bringing gifts when invited to someone's home is common. Avoid giving clocks or anything sharp as gifts.
- Significance of Gifts: Gifts should be thoughtful and symbolize good fortune, prosperity, or friendship
- Avoid Clocks: Clocks are associated with death in Chinese culture, so they are considered inappropriate gifts
- Gift Wrapping: Gifts should be well-wrapped and presented beautifully, as wrapping itself can convey the level of thoughtfulness
6. Qing Ming Festival
Celebrated on April 5th, families clean and decorate tombs of ancestors, offer food, burn joss paper, and pay respects.
- Honoring Ancestors: An important occasion for paying respects to deceased family members
- Tomb Cleaning: Families clean and tidy the tomb, as well as the surrounding area, showing respect for the dead
- Joss Paper: Joss paper (paper money) is burned to help the deceased in their journey to the afterlife
7. Dragon Boat Festival
Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, this festival involves eating zongzi (rice dumplings), racing dragon boats, and hanging mugwort and calamus to ward off evil spirits.
- Zongzi: Zongzi are sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, filled with various ingredients
- Dragon Boat Racing: Teams race dragon boats decorated with colorful designs and symbols
- Mugwort and Calamus: Mugwort and calamus are hung to prevent evil spirits from entering homes and causing disease
8. Mid-Autumn Festival
Celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month, families gather to eat mooncakes, appreciate the full moon, and light lanterns.
- Mooncake Tasting: Traditional mooncakes are filled with lotus paste, salted egg yolks, and various nuts
- Moon Gazing: Families gather to appreciate the full moon and share stories under its light
- Lantern Festival: Lanterns are hung around homes, parks, and temples, creating a beautiful sight at night
9. Chinese Tea Culture
Tea is an essential part of life in Xianyang. Know the proper way to brew and drink tea, as well as the etiquette surrounding tea houses.
- Brewing Technique: Tea is brewed using hot water, not boiling water, to preserve the delicate flavors
- Tea Ceremony: A traditional tea ceremony involves carefully preparing and serving tea in a respectful manner
- Tea Houses: Tea houses are places for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying the local tea culture
10. Market Bargaining
Negotiate prices at markets to get a fair deal. Be polite, persistent, and willing to walk away if necessary.
- Politeness: Be respectful and friendly during negotiations
- Patience: Negotiations can take time, so be patient and persistent
- Walk Away Option: If the seller refuses to lower the price, it's acceptable to walk away and find a different vendor
11. Tang Dynasty Costume Performance
Experience a traditional Tang Dynasty costume performance in the Tang Dynasty Park. Learn about the history and culture of this influential era.
- Historical Significance: The Tang Dynasty was a time of prosperity, innovation, and cultural exchange
- Costumes: Costumes are vibrant and ornate, reflecting the artistic achievements of the era
- Performance: The performances showcase traditional dances, music, and storytelling
12. Terracotta Warriors Etiquette
Respect the Terracotta Warriors by maintaining a quiet and serious demeanor, taking only permitted photos, and not touching the artifacts.
- Silence: Maintain a quiet atmosphere to appreciate the solemnity of the site
- Photography Rules: Follow photography guidelines to protect the fragile artifacts and preserve their integrity
- Respect for Artifacts: Avoid touching the Terracotta Warriors, as it can cause damage and disrespect the historical significance
13. Xianyang Street Food
Try local street food like Roujiaomo (Chinese-style roast meat in a bun), Pao Mo (bread soaked in lamb soup), and Liangpi (cold rice noodles).
- Authentic Taste: Street food offers an authentic taste of local cuisine
- Variety: The variety of street foods allows visitors to sample many flavors and dishes
- Food Safety: Be aware that some street food vendors may not follow proper hygiene practices, so choose vendors carefully
14. Calligraphy Workshops
Learn the art of traditional Chinese calligraphy in a workshop. Express yourself creatively and gain an appreciation for this ancient craft.
- Artistic Expression: Calligraphy offers a unique opportunity to express oneself artistically
- Historical Significance: Calligraphy has played an important role in Chinese art, literature, and cultural history
- Patience and Skill: Learning calligraphy requires patience, practice, and skill development
15. Chinese Language Classes
Immerse yourself in the Chinese language by taking classes. Communicate effectively with locals, learn about the culture, and make new friends.
- Cultural Understanding: Learning the language opens doors to understanding Chinese culture and customs
- Communication Skills: Being able to communicate in Chinese will make travel and daily interactions smoother
- Social Opportunities: Taking classes provides an opportunity to meet locals, learn from them, and make new friends