China: Ancient Capitals, Warrior Armies & City Buzz

Family is central to Chinese society, often taking precedence over individual interests. Hierarchy and age matter greatly in both family and social settings.

●  Families often live in multi-generational households, and elder care is a shared responsibility.

●  Children are expected to respect and obey parents, reflecting deep Confucian roots.

●  Introductions begin with the eldest or most senior person, who should be greeted first.

●  Gift-giving is common when visiting someone’s home, especially items like fruit or tea.

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●  The concept of “face” (miànzi) — a person’s dignity and reputation — plays a huge role in communication.

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●  When visiting a home, removing your shoes is expected and considered respectful.

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💡 Tip: Avoid causing someone to "lose face" by criticizing them publicly, even with good intentions.

China is officially secular but has a rich mix of religious and spiritual practices, often coexisting harmoniously.

●  Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism are the three major traditional belief systems.

●  Folk religion, ancestor worship, and temple offerings are still common, especially during festivals.

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●  Islam and Christianity are practiced in certain regions, particularly among ethnic minorities.

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●  Feng Shui and astrology influence daily decisions, from home layouts to wedding dates.

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●  Burning incense, red paper charms, and food offerings are common spiritual practices.

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💡 Tip: Dress modestly and act respectfully in temples and sacred spaces. Avoid pointing at statues or taking photos without permission.

Daily routines in China reflect a balance of hard work, ritual, and family priorities. Traditional values often coexist with modern city life.

●  A typical day may include tai chi in parks, group dancing in squares, or tea-drinking breaks.

●  Many households still follow traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles like balancing hot and cold foods.

●  Superstitions are taken seriously — the number 4 (associated with death) is avoided, while 8 (linked to prosperity) is favored. Often, buildings will omit the fourth floor (labelling it 3A) and avoid it in phone numbers and registration plates. Similar to the number 13 in Western culture.

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●  Red is a lucky color, used widely in celebrations, clothing, and home decorations.

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●  Local morning markets and open-air eateries are part of everyday community life.​

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💡 Tip: Don’t be surprised if people speak loudly in public — it’s not considered rude and often just reflects enthusiasm.

Politeness in China differs from Western expectations and centers on group harmony, humility, and hierarchy.

●  Handshakes are common but may be gentler than in the West; nodding is also a polite greeting.

●  Business cards are offered with two hands and should be received the same way, followed by a brief look before putting them away respectfully.

●  Avoid public displays of affection — these are generally frowned upon in traditional settings.

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●  Meals are often shared from large dishes placed in the center, with etiquette around chopstick use (e.g., never stick them upright in rice).

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●  Refusing compliments or insisting on paying the bill are considered polite gestures.

💡 Tip: It’s customary to offer food or drink more than once — declining once doesn’t necessarily mean you aren’t interested!

Chinese festivals are deeply rooted in tradition and often align with the lunar calendar. They involve family reunions, food rituals, and symbolic customs.

●  Chinese New Year (Spring Festival): The biggest celebration, featuring red decorations, firecrackers, and huge family feasts.

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●  Mid-Autumn Festival: Marked by lanterns and mooncakes, celebrating unity and harvest.

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●  Dragon Boat Festival: Held in early summer with boat races and rice dumplings (zongzi).

●  Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day): A time to honor ancestors by cleaning graves and making offerings.

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●  National Day (October 1): Celebrates the founding of the People’s Republic of China with parades and fireworks.

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💡 Tip: Travel during major holidays can be hectic — trains sell out fast and cities get crowded, so plan accordingly.