Visiting China: Tourists Should Avoid These 12 Things Understand and Respect Chinese Cultural Norms Avoid Politically Sensitive Topics China's rich history and cultural nuances are deeply rooted in tradition and honor, influencing how people interact and what they consider taboo topics. When visiting China, it's crucial to steer clear of discussing politically sensitive issues such as Tibet, Taiwan, and Tiananmen Square. These subjects are highly sensitive and often avoided by locals, especially when conversing with foreigners. Engaging in such conversations can lead to awkwardness or even conflict. Instead, focus on the rich cultural and historical sites like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors, or the Leshan Giant Buddha, which offer a glimpse into China's fascinating past and vibrant present. Avoid Playing with Chopsticks Dining etiquette is an essential aspect of Chinese culture, and tourists should be mindful of how they use chopsticks. It's important not to play with chopsticks or use them to point at others. Additionally, placing chopsticks upright in a bowl is considered bad luck, as it resembles incense sticks used in rituals for the deceased. Instead, lay them across the bowl or on a chopstick rest. Embracing local dining customs will help you navigate social interactions more smoothly and show respect for local traditions. Don't Expect Personal Space on Public Transport China's bustling cities like Shanghai and Beijing are known for their crowded public transportation systems. Unlike in Western countries, personal space is a luxury that is often sacrificed in China's metros and buses. Be prepared to stand close to others and avoid large, dramatic displays of public affection. Understanding and accepting this cultural norm will make your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit Don't Expect Cash to be Widely Accepted China has rapidly embraced digital payment methods, with mobile wallet apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay dominating everyday transactions. Cash is rarely used, especially in urban areas. Tourists should prepare by setting up these mobile wallets to avoid inconveniences. This shift to a cashless society is convenient but requires some preparation, like ensuring your phone is always charged and having a local SIM card for seamless transactions. Don't Visit During Major Chinese Holidays Timing your visit to China around local holidays can significantly impact your travel experience. During major holidays like Chinese New Year, cities like Shanghai and Beijing can become ghost towns as locals travel to their hometowns. This can result in closed businesses and limited services. Conversely, popular tourist destinations can become overcrowded with domestic tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the attractions. Planning your trip outside these peak times will help you avoid these issues and have a more relaxed experience. Don't Forget to Pack Toilet Paper Public restrooms in China, especially in rural areas or less touristy destinations, often lack toilet paper. Tourists should always carry their own supply of toilet paper or sanitary wipes. Additionally, be prepared for the prevalence of squat toilets, which might require some practice for those unaccustomed to them. Packing these essentials ensures you are prepared for any situation and can focus on enjoying your trip. Avoid Accepting Offers from Strangers In tourist-heavy areas, be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers to visit "authentic" teahouses or similar attractions. These can often be scams where you end up paying exorbitant prices for simple services. It's best to politely decline such offers and stick to well-known, reputable establishments for your cultural experiences. Avoid Wearing Green Hats A lesser-known cultural quirk in China is the association of green hats with infidelity. Wearing a green hat can attract unwanted attention and is best avoided. However, green clothing in other forms is perfectly acceptable. This small adjustment in your wardrobe can help you blend in more comfortably and avoid misunderstandings. Be Adventurous with Food, But Know the Etiquette Chinese cuisine is diverse and offers a culinary adventure for any visitor. Embrace the opportunity to try local delicacies like xiao long bao, biangbiang noodles, and crispy duck. Hot pot meals are particularly popular, where you cook ingredients in a shared broth. However, be mindful of local dining etiquette, such as tasting dark liquids before adding them to your broth, as they might be vinegar instead of soy sauce. Being adventurous yet respectful of local customs will enhance your culinary experience.