Communication bans
Don’t be shy about asking what might seem like odd questions
In China, norms of politeness differ from European expectations, so when talking with locals you may encounter questions that feel unusual to you.
“If you are male, you will likely be asked about your finances right away. If you are female, discussions about marital status often come first. It is common in China for age to be discussed later, whereas in Russia this is less typical when meeting someone new,” says Elena Kazakova, the head of the China and Southeast Asia division for a Russian tour company. (Kazakova)
She notes these questions can open a conversation. “You can also ask about the other person’s age and marital status. These exchanges help to establish rapport and transition to other topics,” she explains. (Kazakova)
Also, a lack of formal greeting should not be treated as rudeness. In China, greetings often come in the form of questions like: “Oh, have you arrived yet?”, “Oh, are you studying?”, “Oh, have you had lunch yet?” (Kazakova)
Don’t hug the Chinese
Touching, such as patting on the back or hugging, can be considered rude by many Chinese. “When engaging with Chinese people, avoid hugs, back pats, and other touches; handshakes are the standard form of introduction,” Kazakova notes. In China, as in much of Asia, embracing or kissing upon meeting is not customary. (Kazakova)
Don’t address people by their first names
Care should be taken when addressing a Chinese individual. It is polite to use the family name, for example “Mr. Zhang.” At work, titles are used, such as “Teacher Van.” In China, the surname comes first followed by the given name, so if someone introduces himself as Zhao Ping, you should address him as “Mr. Zhao.” (Kazakova)
Avoid public conflicts
The deepest insult would be to undermine someone’s reputation in front of others. Preserving face is crucial in Chinese culture, so it is best to respond to criticism privately. (Kazakova)
Raising voices is frowned upon. Chinese communicators tend to restrain emotion while speaking, offering minimal gestural support to the speaker. (Kazakova)
Violence is not tolerated
Any form of violence is unacceptable. An insult followed by physical aggression can lead to fines and possible deportation, with police enforcing the rules strictly. (Sergei, a Moscow-based university teacher with years in China, via socialbites.ca)
There is a traditional framework for visitors: five principles guiding daily interaction—mutual respect for sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. (Kazakova)
Do not discuss political issues
A university lecturer notes that sensitive political topics are to be avoided. In foreign discussions, China should be presented as the People’s Republic, avoiding comparisons with Taiwan or suggestions that Taiwan is separate. Sensitive subjects include Tibet and Xinjiang, and discussions about Islam or the Xinjiang situation are discouraged. (Kazakova)
Criticism of China’s government should be avoided; foreigners should not probe a Chinese person’s personal views on domestic or foreign policy. (Kazakova)
Don’t comment on traditions
Statements about Chinese traditions can be misinterpreted. It helps to distinguish between sharing perspectives and making absolute declarations. Official remarks describe the Chinese as inherently polite toward foreigners, and if a rule is broken, locals typically offer corrective guidance rather than public shaming. (Kazakova)
Things not to do in daily life
Do not stick wooden sticks into rice
Chopsticks should rest on a bowl or plate rather than being stuck upright in food. This gesture is associated with mourning. It is also polite to leave a portion of food on the plate when dining out, signaling that the meal is satisfactory. (Kazakova)
Finishing the entire dish may imply the cook did not provide enough food or that portions were inadequate, she adds. Tipping is generally not expected, and some venues do not allow tips at all, which could even risk staff discipline. (Kazakova)
Do not try to pay with non-RMB currency
Foreign currency should be avoided once in China; money is best exchanged on arrival. Carrying dollars is convenient, then exchanging them for yuan at official offices or branches of the People’s Bank of China. (Kazakova)
When paying, use two hands, much like presenting a business card. (Kazakova)
Don’t be afraid to bargain in markets
Bargaining is expected in markets, often bringing prices down significantly. If you truly intend to buy, a lower price is possible. Do not bargain merely for sport; it signals a buyer’s resolve. (Kazakova)
Do not touch Buddhist monks
Visiting Buddhist monasteries requires respect for personal space. Touching monks is prohibited, and physical contact with the opposite sex is viewed as a serious misstep for a Buddhist. Offerings should be given to the person accompanying the monk if needed, or placed on the floor when appropriate. Smoking on monastery grounds is also discouraged. (Kazakova)
Do not point with one finger
In public spaces, limit hand gestures. Pointing with a single finger or the pinky can be offensive. Avoid stroking a child’s head, a practice believed to disrupt a protective Buddha figure atop the child. (Kazakova)
Be careful when crossing streets
Traffic in China can be chaotic, especially for tourists. Drivers often ignore typical rules, so crossing requires vigilance and patience. It’s prudent to look both ways repeatedly and to cross with locals when possible. (Kazakova)
Do not photograph military facilities
Foreigners are generally prohibited from photographing military and defense sites; restrictions also apply to police stations, monasteries, and churches when signs indicate. Additional cautions cover restricted items and imports, including narcotics, certain medicines, erotic materials, and animal products. (Kazakova)
Overall guidance emphasizes respectful behavior and awareness of local regulations to avoid trouble while visiting or living in China. (Kazakova)