Local Customs & Etiquette in Zhufeng, China
1. Zhufeng Greeting Etiquette
A deep bow and a handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time. It's important to maintain eye contact during the greeting.
- Respect: Shows respect to the local culture and people
- Avoid Touching Head: Avoid touching others' heads as it is considered impolite.
- Timing: Timing is crucial, do not rush the greeting process.
2. Mealtime Customs
Using chopsticks requires skill. It's considered impolite to stick them vertically in rice as it resembles incense sticks at funerals.
- Chopstick Etiquette: Learn proper chopstick etiquette to avoid offending the hosts.
- Table Manners: Follow general table manners such as not speaking with a full mouth and keeping your hands visible.
- Food Sharing: Food is often shared, so it's important to offer and accept food politely.
3. Gift Giving Customs
Avoid giving clocks, umbrellas, or anything with four legs as they are associated with death and bad luck.
- Appropriate Gifts: Choose appropriate gifts that symbolize prosperity and happiness.
- Wrapping: Wrap gifts neatly, using colorful paper and ribbons is appreciated.
- Gift Reciprocation: Reciprocate a gift when you receive one, it shows your appreciation.
4. Temple Etiquette
Remove shoes before entering temples and dress modestly. Do not point at Buddha statues or images.
- Respect: Show respect to the religious beliefs and practices of the locals.
- Silence: Be quiet and peaceful, do not disturb others in prayer.
- Offerings: You can make offerings of incense, fruit, or money but always use both hands.
5. Market Etiquette
Haggling is expected in markets. Bargain politely and respectfully.
- Politeness: Maintain a friendly and polite demeanor during negotiations.
- Knowledgeable Bargaining: Be knowledgeable about the item's price to avoid overpaying.
- Respectful Goodbyes: Say goodbye and thank the vendor when leaving.
6. Bus Etiquette
Offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.
- Courtesy: Show courtesy and respect to others.
- Space: Respect other passengers' personal space.
- Noise Levels: Keep noise levels low to ensure a peaceful journey for everyone.
7. Public Transport Etiquette
Queue up in an orderly fashion and give up your seat if the train is crowded.
- Orderliness: Maintain orderliness and discipline in public spaces.
- Respect: Respect others' personal space and time.
- Cleanliness: Keep the area clean by not littering.
8. Dining Etiquette
It's customary to say 'xie xie' (thank you) after a meal.
- Graciousness: Demonstrate graciousness by thanking your host.
- Table Manners: Follow general table manners such as not speaking with a full mouth and keeping your hands visible.
- Food Sharing: Food is often shared, so it's important to offer and accept food politely.
9. Public Bathroom Etiquette
Carry toilet paper as public bathrooms may not provide it.
- Preparedness: Be prepared with your own toilet paper.
- Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices.
- Cleanliness: Leave the bathroom clean after use.
10. Taxis Etiquette
Always have change ready when taking a taxi. Tips are not expected.
- Preparedness: Be prepared with the exact fare.
- Courtesy: Treat drivers with courtesy and respect.
- Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt for safety.
11. Business Meeting Etiquette
Punctuality is highly valued. Business cards are exchanged after introductions.
- Punctuality: Arrive on time for meetings.
- Respect: Show respect to your business partners and their company.
- Formality: Maintain a formal demeanor during meetings.
12. Hospitality Etiquette
Guests are valued and treated with great respect. Gifts are appreciated.
- Respect: Show respect to your host and their family.
- Politeness: Be polite and courteous during your stay.
- Gift Giving: Bring a small gift for your host as a token of appreciation.
13. Drinking Customs
Toasting is an important part of social drinking. Look into the eyes of the person you are toasting with.
- Respect: Show respect by maintaining eye contact during a toast.
- Courtesy: Be courteous and mindful when drinking with others.
- Pace Yourself: Pace yourself to avoid becoming intoxicated in public.
14. Driving Etiquette
Traffic rules are generally followed. Honking is used sparingly and only when necessary.
- Respect for Rules: Respect traffic rules for safety.
- Courtesy: Use your horn courteously and only when necessary.
- Defensive Driving: Drive defensively to avoid accidents.
15. Street Food Etiquette
Queuing is expected when buying street food. Be polite and patient.
- Patience: Be patient when waiting for your turn.
- Politeness: Be polite and courteous with the street food vendors.
- Food Safety: Avoid foods that are not properly cooked or stored.