Meeting someone
You are introduced to a colleague or a friend's relative.
Open guideEtiquette
Practical etiquette and polite phrases for everyday situations in China.
Etiquette in practice
Joining a shared meal
Several dishes arrive for everyone at the table.
Open guideVisiting a home
A friend has invited you to their home.
Open guideGiving and receiving
You want to thank someone with a small present.
Open guideOffering or declining
Your host offers more food or another drink.
Open guideAsking before a photo
You want a photo of a person, a shop, or a cultural space.
Open guideFAQ
How should I address someone I have just met?
Listen for the name or title used in the introduction. If you are unsure, ask how the person would like to be addressed rather than guessing.
What should I do at a shared Chinese meal?
Let the host guide the start of the meal, use serving chopsticks or a serving spoon when provided, and keep your chopsticks resting neatly when you are not eating.
Is it polite to decline alcohol or extra food?
Yes. Thank the host and state your preference clearly. Health, dietary, religious, and personal reasons are all valid.
Should I always use both hands?
Two hands can show extra care in formal exchanges such as giving a gift or receiving a document. Everyday interactions are usually more relaxed.
Are these etiquette suggestions the same everywhere in China?
No. Age, relationship, region, family habits, and the formality of an occasion all matter. Treat these suggestions as starting points and observe the setting.