Practical Chinese etiquette for travellers

Moment 1 · Tea pour direction. When pouring tea for others, the spout should never point directly at someone — considered impolite. Pour going counter-clockwise around the table (right to left from your seat). When someone pours tea for you, tap two fingers (index + middle) on the table twice as thanks — this is a silent thanks gesture rooted in Qing-era court protocol. Universally understood.

Moment 2 · Chopstick taboos. Never stick chopsticks vertically in rice (resembles incense at funeral altars — death symbolism). Never pass food directly chopstick-to-chopstick to another diner (also funeral-related). Rest chopsticks on chopstick rest or across the bowl rim. Avoid pointing with chopsticks.

Moment 3 · Temple posture. Step over thresholds, not on them (thresholds spiritually significant). Walk clockwise around stupas and main shrines (Buddhist tradition). No flash photography of statues. Modest dress (covered shoulders + knees) at active religious sites. Small cash donation at incense pots appreciated, not required.

Moment 4 · Photographing locals. Always ask first — eye contact, gesture with camera, wait for nod or smile. Hutong residents, market vendors, elderly people on park benches all photographed with consent. Children photographed only with parent permission. Most older Chinese welcome being asked. Refusing is fine and never offence.

Moment 5 · Festival hongbao. Red envelopes with cash at Chinese New Year, weddings, key milestones. Travellers don't need to bring hongbao but understanding the gesture matters. If invited to a Chinese family event, RMB 200-500 cash in a red envelope is appropriate. Even numbers preferred (8 lucky, 4 unlucky avoided).