Local Customs & Etiquette in Zhangjiajie, China
1. Tipping Etiquette
Taxis and restaurants may not include a service charge, so it's customary to tip in Zhangjiajie. However, the amount is usually rounding up the total bill.
- Rounding Up: Common practice is to round up the total bill when tips are given.
- Not Included Service Charge: Service charge is usually not included in bills, so tipping is expected.
- Tipping Taxi Drivers: It's customary to give a small tip to taxi drivers for good service.
2. Dining Etiquette
Eating with chopsticks is the norm in Zhangjiajie. Use the right hand to help guide the chopsticks if needed.
- Use of Chopsticks: Chopsticks are used for all meals, even in restaurants catering to tourists.
- Using Left Hand: The left hand should be kept free and is considered impolite to use during meals.
- Eating in Public Places: Public food markets and street food stalls are common, offering a unique dining experience.
3. Bowing Greeting
Bowing is a common greeting in Zhangjiajie. The depth of the bow depends on the relationship between the people.
- Depth of Bow: The depth of the bow indicates respect, with deeper bows showing greater respect.
- Social Circumstances: Bowing is more common in formal settings or among older generations.
- Reciprocity: If someone bows to you, it's polite to bow back to show respect.
4. Dress Code in Temples
Visitors to temples should dress modestly and remove their shoes. Some temples provide slippers for visitors.
- Modest Dress: Long pants or skirts that cover the knees are recommended.
- Shoe Removal: Shoes should be removed before entering temples, and slippers may be provided.
- Respect for Religious Sites: Behaviour should be respectful and quiet when visiting religious sites.
5. Greeting Elders
In Zhangjiajie, it is customary to greet elders with respect and deference. This includes using formal language.
- Formal Language: Use of 'you' should be replaced with 'respectful you' when addressing elders.
- Physical Contact: Physical contact, such as hugging or back-patting, is considered inappropriate when greeting elders.
- Showing Respect: Standing up when an elder enters a room and walking them to their seat are signs of respect.
6. Accepting Gifts
Gift-giving is common in Zhangjiajie. Refusing a gift may cause offense, so it's customary to accept politely.
- Polite Refusal: If a gift is too large or inappropriate, polite refusal is acceptable.
- Gift-Giving Occasions: Gifts are given on special occasions like birthdays, New Year, and other festivals.
- Gift Choices: Choose gifts carefully as some items may have negative connotations or be considered offensive.
7. Public Transport Manners
Patience and courtesy are essential on public transport in Zhangjiajie. Standing is common during peak hours.
- Patience: Be patient when waiting for public transport, especially during peak hours.
- Courtesy: Offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.
- Queueing: Queuing is expected when boarding public transport. Push in lines are considered rude.
8. Haggling at Markets
Haggling is common and expected at markets in Zhangjiajie. Prices are usually higher for tourists.
- Negotiation Skills: Negotiation skills can help get a better price, but be respectful during the process.
- Starting Price: Start with a lower price and work your way up to reach an agreeable price.
- Politeness: Maintain politeness during negotiations, even if the seller seems firm.
9. Taking Photos with Locals
Asking for permission before taking photos of locals is polite. Some people may expect a small fee.
- Permission: Always ask for permission before taking someone's photo.
- Fee for Photos: Some locals may expect a small fee for their image to be used in photos.
- Respectful Behavior: Respect the privacy of locals and their homes, especially during photo sessions.
10. Using Public Restrooms
Public restrooms in Zhangjiajie may not always have toilet paper. It's recommended to carry some.
- Toilet Paper: Carry your own toilet paper as it may not be available in public restrooms.
- Cleanliness: Public restrooms may not always be clean, so use hand sanitizer after using them.
- Coin-operated Restrooms: Some public restrooms require a coin to unlock the door. Have some coins handy.
11. Drinking Tea in Social Settings
Tea is an important part of social gatherings in Zhangjiajie. Accepting tea is a sign of acceptance and hospitality.
- Acceptance: Accepting tea shows acceptance and appreciation of the host's offer.
- Tea Etiquette: Use both hands to hold the teacup, no matter the size. Avoid slurping.
- Offering Tea: If you have guests, offering tea is a sign of hospitality.
12. Communicating with Locals
English proficiency varies among locals in Zhangjiajie. Using translation apps or learning a few basic phrases can help.
- Translation Apps: Translation apps can be useful when communicating with locals.
- Learning Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases, such as 'Hello' and 'Thank You', shows respect.
- Body Language: Pay attention to non-verbal cues and gestures when communicating with locals.
13. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are widely available in Zhangjiajie. Negotiating the price before starting the journey is customary.
- Negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi or using a ride-sharing app.
- Taxi Scams: Avoid taxis without meters and negotiate the fare in advance to avoid scams.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Download local ride-sharing apps, such as Didi, for convenient and affordable transport options.
14. Smoking Etiquette
Smoking is common in Zhangjiajie. Some public places have designated smoking areas.
- Designated Smoking Areas: Look for designated smoking areas in public places.
- Respecting No-Smoking Signs: Respect no-smoking signs and avoid smoking in non-designated areas.
- Smoking Etiquette at Restaurants: Some restaurants may have a separate smoking room. Follow the restaurant's rules regarding smoking.
15. Street Food Safety
Street food in Zhangjiajie can be delicious but may not always be hygienic. Use caution when consuming street food.
- Hygiene: Look for clean food stalls and avoid those with questionable hygiene practices.
- Cooking Time: Choose food that is freshly cooked, not sitting out for long periods.
- Avoiding Unusual Items: Avoid unknown or unusual street food items to minimize the risk of stomach problems.