Don't stick your chopsticks vertically into your rice since it looks like funeral incense. #badluck
--intrepid32043
120
Don't use the number 4 for anything, it's very bad luck. It sounds like the word for death in Chinese.
--Crouching Squirrel
81
Don't give a clock as a wedding gift. It represents timing the end of the marriage.
--Crouching Squirrel
81
Never give white flowers to someone. These are only at a funeral.
--Crouching Squirrel
51
Don't take the seat that faces the door unless you're an elder or the host. That's like the VIP seat
--Crouching Squirrel
41
Don't call a waitress or girl 小姐 (xiao3 jie3) like you would it in Taiwan. in China it can mean "prostitute".
--Crouching Squirrel
41
Never write in red ink. Red ink is a symbol of protest or criticism, and best saved for teachers correcting students’ homework.
--Sakshirajput
31
Don't Talk about Uncomfortable or Politically Sensitive Topics
--Sakshirajput
20
Locals will often say “you are fat,” “you should wear more clothes, it’s getting cold” and also ask how much you earn and how old your girlfriend or boyfriend is. They are only interested in showing that they care about you and are not trying to offend you. You don’t have to answer them however.
--Sakshirajput
20
In many areas of the country, due to traditions and religion, the head is considered more sacred than other parts of the body. A touch could be considered disrespectful, so be aware of this and don't pat people on their heads or play with their hair unless you are sure of your standing with them.
--Sakshirajput
10
Do Present and receive things with both hands. This is considered polite in Chinese culture.
--Sakshirajput
21
When you greet someone much older than you in China, you should lower your head below the person you are bowing to in order to show respect and recognition.
--Sakshirajput
21
The Chinese have little knowledge of queuing and personal space. If you leave a gap in a queue because of your personal space, someone will fill it.
--Sakshirajput
21
When you give or take a business card, hold it with both hands out of respect.
--Crouching Squirrel
21
Red envelope known as Hongbao (with money inside) is a traditional gift which you can give on any occasion like marriage, new year, job promotion or any place to wish good luck to Chinese people
--Deb
11
Offer food/drink 3 times. When offered initially refuse.
--Jifi
11
Prepare toilet paper if you're going to need it out and about. Often bathrooms will have coin-operated vending machines with toilet paper, too. There will be no pre-used TP in the stalls.
--Rad
00
Ask locals if they have already eaten their meal when greeting them.
--Sakshirajput
11
Chinese can’t stand unpunctual people. If you make an appointment with someone, make sure you show up on time. Otherwise, it might be perceived as something extremely disrespectful.
--Sakshirajput
11
If you go out with Chinese for a party or dinner, you need to eat and drink as much as they do. Locals love to see you enjoy the food you are offered. Once you refuse to eat or drink (even if you are already full) you can see some disappointment on people’s face.
--Sakshirajput
