Backpacking is a revolving, ever-changing experience, where you can quickly learn the difference between your own culture and others. Traveling through a country will allow you to learn a new set of rules, customs, and social expectations that you have never experienced before. Taking the time to be humble and quiet and observe the actions of others is a good way to start learning.
When backpacking through China, you will discover a society that is vastly different from your own. The social rules and customs, the cultural obligations, and the violations are all different and unique. Nothing is the same, and you will need to learn an entirely new way of living just to fit in.
There is nothing better than experiencing a culture first hand – that doesn’t, however, mean that one should not take the time to read and learn about what is expected before going. This will prevent embarrassing situations, and help natives feel more comfortable around you, so that you can learn the intricacies of the culture. In addition, taking the time to read about what is expected will help you avoid getting in trouble or seriously offending someone.
Addressing Peers
When addressing someone for any reason, it is expected that you address them with their official title. If they hold a position, such as ‘General’, then refer to them as that. If they do not, however, or if you are unaware of their position, you should refer to them as Mr./Mrs./Ms plus their last name. Don’t call them by their first name unless invited to do some, and never refer to someone as a comrade – this indicates that your a communist.
How to Act
Every culture has it’s rules on how you are to act, and China is no different. In China, to greet someone, you nod your head, or you bow slightly. Handshakes are also common, but you should wait for your Chinese partner to initiate the motion, as not all are comfortable with the greeting.
Don’t show your Italian Side
Italians love to motion with their hands. It makes conversations lively a fun, and helps illustrate a point. In China, this is very uncommon. Chinese people don’t move their hands around in motions when speaking, and they will become annoyed quickly if you do.
Don’t Touch
This is common in many Asian countries, and is the direct opposite of those found in Western society. Chinese people do not enjoy being touched by strangers, especially if they are older or in a position of authority, whether that be government or not. Don’t touch someone unless you absolutely have to.
Respect the Elders
As a Confucian rules, the elders are to be respected in every situation by those who are younger. You should always acknowledge the elder in a group first, and show the most respect to that person.
Keep your hands out of you mouth
Putting your hands in your mouth is considered to be vulgar in Chinese culture, and should not be done. This includes biting your nails.
It’s okay….
…to spit in public and blow your nose. Certain Asian cultures find this unacceptable. The Chinese do not.
Dress Western
If you are from the West, the odds are whatever clothes you have will be acceptable in China. The Chinese emulate Western clothing styles often, especially in urban cities, such as Beijing. As a standard, it is better to dress more on the conservative side. Women more often than not wear dresses, though it is perfectly okay to wear pants.
