Cultural know-how
Practical guides to Chinese social norms, dining etiquette, gift-giving, and cultural expectations. Know what to expect before you're in the situation.
Round-table seating hierarchy, communal chopsticks, and the delicate art of paying the bill. Understanding these will save you from awkward moments at business dinners and family meals.
Absolute taboos: sticking chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense), pointing at people with chopsticks, and using personal chopsticks for shared dishes. Use serving chopsticks for communal plates. Slurping noodles is fine — taboo in Japan, acceptable in China.
Understanding 'face' (mianzi) is the key to Chinese interpersonal relationships. Never criticize publicly, never refuse directly, always give people an exit path. Protecting someone's face matters more than proving you're right.
What seems minor to you can leave a lasting impression in China. Understanding basic customs helps you connect better and avoid unintended offense.
Round-table seating hierarchy, communal chopsticks, and the delicate art of paying the bill. Understanding these will save you from awkward moments at business dinners and family meals.
How to order tea properly, basic tea ceremony etiquette, and a guide to regional famous teas. Knowing the difference between green, oolong, and pu'er will let you navigate any tea house with confidence.
Absolute taboos: sticking chopsticks upright in rice (resembles funeral incense), pointing at people with chopsticks, and using personal chopsticks for shared dishes. Use serving chopsticks for communal plates. Slurping noodles is fine — taboo in Japan, acceptable in China.
Mainland China has effectively no tipping culture. Hotels, restaurants, and taxis do not expect tips. A few high-end hotels may add a service charge — but this is already on the bill. Giving cash tips can genuinely confuse staff.
Dress codes, how to enter halls, incense etiquette, and photography no-gos. Buddhist and Taoist temple rules differ slightly, but the core principles are universal.
Where bargaining is expected and where it's offensive. Practical strategies for markets and small shops, and when to stop negotiating. Remember: bargaining is a social interaction, not a confrontation.
What to give and what to avoid. Color taboos (white/black = funerals), number superstitions (4 = death), and the art of refusing three times before accepting.
When to give red envelopes, how much to put in, and number taboos. Amount guides for weddings, Spring Festival, and birthdays. 8 is lucky, 4 is death — these details matter enormously.
Handshake or nod? How to address people? Business card exchange etiquette. Chinese people rarely hug or cheek-kiss. Using title + surname is the safest form of address in professional settings.
Understanding 'face' (mianzi) is the key to Chinese interpersonal relationships. Never criticize publicly, never refuse directly, always give people an exit path. Protecting someone's face matters more than proving you're right.
Send your questions about specific cultural situations and we'll give you practical advice for your context.