Coming to China
Culture & etiquette
Habits vary widely across China's regions, generations, families and social settings. Something observed in one city or interaction is not automatically a national rule. Watch what people around you do, follow posted instructions and ask politely when unsure.
Tipping: not expected in everyday settings
Tipping is generally not expected in everyday restaurants, taxis and most routine services. Some hotels, tours or premium services may include a service charge or follow their own practice. Check the bill or operator's guidance. A voluntary thank-you for personal service is optional, never compulsory.
Some tours or premium services include a service charge or follow their own practice — check the bill or the operator's guidance first; a voluntary thank-you for personal service is optional, never compulsory.
Face (面子) and indirect communication
In some social or professional settings, people may place particular value on avoiding public embarrassment. When a problem occurs, explain the request calmly and specifically and, where possible, discuss it privately. Individual communication styles still vary widely.
Directness varies by person and situation. "I'll think about it," "it might be inconvenient," or "maybe" can soften a refusal, but they do not always mean no. If the answer matters to your plans, confirm it politely and specifically.
Queuing, indoor smoking, and public noise
Queues and crowding vary by venue and time. Stand clearly in line, keep your belongings secure and follow staff instructions. If someone moves ahead, calmly say "请排队" ("Please queue") or ask a staff member for help. Smoking restrictions and enforcement vary by jurisdiction and venue — follow posted rules and request a non-smoking room or area when needed. Noise levels also vary; keep calls and videos quiet on trains, in museums, religious sites and other shared spaces.
Indoor smoking laws exist nationally but enforcement varies widely — many smaller restaurants, offices, and some hotel lobbies still have active smokers. Outdoor smoking by adult men is very common, especially in smaller cities. Equally common: taking phone calls on speakerphone at full volume in restaurants, trains, parks, and any public space. This is culturally normal behaviour, not considered rude. Noise levels in public spaces are generally higher than western visitors expect.
QR codes: China's universal interface
The QR code is the dominant interaction layer for almost everything in China. Restaurant menus, payments, venue entry tickets, seat booking, WeChat contact exchange, shared bike unlocking, government service forms, and even toilet paper dispensers in some tourist sites all start with scanning a QR code. If you see a table with no physical menu, a door that seems locked, or a sign with no obvious next step — look for a QR code. It will almost certainly be there.
Being stared at in smaller cities
Some travelers may receive curious looks or photo requests, but you do not need to assume the person's intention or agree to a photo, explain yourself or accept physical contact. Smile or nod if you are comfortable. If not, say "不好意思，不拍照" ("Sorry, no photos") and step away. Seek staff help if someone ignores your boundary.