Emily Flores
Cultural norms shape daily life in ways that often go unnoticed—until you step into a new country. Simple gestures, superstitions, and traditions can reveal a lot about a society’s values and history. Some customs may feel familiar, while others challenge expectations in surprising ways. Get ready to explore unique practices that make daily life in China distinctly its own.
Declining Gifts Before Accepting
A gift in China comes with an unexpected ritual, a polite refusal. It is customary to decline a gift at least once, sometimes even three times, before finally accepting it. A tradition that stems from a deep-rooted sense of humility. The giver expects persistence, which makes the moment of acceptance a more meaningful exchange.
Tapping Fingers To Say Thank You
Tea culture in China is one of many small gestures, and one of the most curious is finger tapping. When tea is poured, a few quick taps on the table signal silent gratitude. This practice dates back to Qing dynasty courtiers who discreetly “bowed” without publicly revealing an emperor’s disguise. No words are needed, just a rhythmic acknowledgment.
Avoiding The Number Four
In Chinese culture, numbers hold significant superstitions that influence daily decisions. The number four, sounding like the word for “death,” is considered unlucky and is avoided in things like floor numbers, phone numbers, and even gift sets. On the other hand, the number eight, representing prosperity and wealth, is highly sought after and considered a lucky choice!
Eating Every Part Of The Animal
Food waste is discouraged, and many dishes include parts of the animal Americans might not be used to eating—chicken feet, pig intestines, duck tongues, and even fish heads. Some of these are considered delicacies in Chinese cuisine, valued for their flavor and texture. China is also the world’s largest consumer of organ meats.
Serving Elders First At Every Meal
Meals in China follow a hierarchy. The eldest at the table is always served first, a sign of deep-seated respect. Younger family members often pour tea for seniors before proceeding to fill their own cups. Even in casual settings, deference to elders is an unspoken but widely followed etiquette rule.
Parents Actively Arrange Dates For Their Kids
Marriage is a family affair for them, and parents take matchmaking seriously. Parks in major cities host “marriage markets,” where hopeful parents display their children’s profiles on sheets of paper. Height, income, education—all laid out like resumes, evidence that romance here often comes with a family endorsement.
Red Envelopes Hold More Than Just Money
Chinese New Year, weddings, and job promotions often come with a small red packet. But it’s not just about the money inside—gifting an odd-numbered amount might be seen as unlucky. The way the packet is given matters, too. It’s considered disrespectful to open it right away; it’s not just about the cash but the respect behind the gesture.
Face Masks Aren’t Just For Sickness
Long before the global pandemic, face masks were a common sight in China. People wear them to protect against pollution, to avoid catching colds, or even as a fashion statement. Unlike in the U.S., where masks are primarily health-related, they are simply part of the daily wardrobe in China.
Drinking Hot Water
Forget ice water—hot water is the widely preferred drink in China. Believed to aid digestion and maintain internal balance, it’s served everywhere, from restaurants to airplanes. While Americans may find it unusual, locals sip steaming cups without hesitation. You may find this custom practiced even on a sweltering summer day.
Squat Toilets Are Still Common
Public restrooms in China often come with squat toilets. Many locals believe they are more hygienic, as they prevent direct contact with a toilet seat. Newcomers setting away from a big city may find squat toilets tricky at first, but practice makes perfect. One important tip? Always carry tissues, as toilet paper may not be provided.