Manners in China

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Asia / Eastern Asia

Greetings

  • Nǐ hǎo
  • Nín hǎo
  • Handshake
  • Cupped fist salute

Etiquette

  • Address elders with surname plus honorific "~xiānshēng/nǚshì"
  • Present and receive business cards with both hands
  • Avoid standing chopsticks vertically in rice bowl as it evokes mourning
  • During meals, rotate dishes and offer food to elders and guests
  • Loud voices in public places are common and not considered rude
  • Relationship building often prioritized over punctuality
  • Red is auspicious color, white is for mourning
  • Avoid gifting clocks, umbrellas, pears as they suggest parting
  • WeChat payment is mainstream, cash for small amounts
  • Tipping culture basically absent

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