If you’re like most people who start reading about Chinese emperors, you’ll feel very quickly that you’ve disappeared down a gilded and extraordinarily rich rabbit hole. 

There are just so many Chinese emperors and dynasties that even local Chinese people are confused by who did what and when. Let’s face it. A dedicated Chinese history expert would find it hard to wrap their head around every last imperial detail, and we both know that no tour of China is long enough for you to absorb it all. So, rather than provide a blow by blow description of all the Chinese emperors since time began, we thought, why not keep it super simple? 

In this article we share fabulous facts and unlikely fiction that bring some of Chinese most fascinating emperors and their achievements (or lack of them) to life. 

Let’s start with fabulous facts

China as we know it today is a relatively new concept. When considered in the context of Chinese history, emperors have reigned supreme in one way or another for a couple of thousand years.

Overall, there were an incredible 83 dynasties and reigns throughout Chinese history, and a remarkable 559 emperors and kings! 

In China, the emperor was the absolute ruler; a symbol of heavenly power on earth. It might all sound wonderful, but life for a Chinese emperor really wasn’t all lavish ceremonies and disposable servants – although there was plenty of that. You’d think with an endless supply of riches and concubines at your disposal, not to mention access to the best in science and medicine, life would be sweet, however, not so. Being an emperor was dangerous business. With the constant threat to life from those ‘nearest and dearest’ to you, emperors’ lives were often brief and met with violent endings, with untimely death all too common. Some emperors even brought about their own demise, with attempts to reach immortality backfiring unceremoniously. 

Here are a few fabulous facts about Chinese emperors.

The best and most of [Chinese emperors]

Chinese emperors are synonymous with the expansion of China in terms of geography, science, music, and culture. Reflecting the personal interests of the emperor at the time, many advances were made in different areas, with remarkable discoveries the fruits of their labor.

Here are just some of the stand out achievements.

4 Chinese emperors western travelers should know

So with the fab facts out of the way, let’s dive into the detail of four Chinese emperors you really should know.

Qin Shihuang (259 BC – 210 BC): China’s first emperor 

Prior to becoming unified for the first time under Qin Shihuang, China was beset by almost continuous feuding between the various tribes and states. It wasn’t called the Warring Period for nothing, right? But somehow, Shi Huang Di (yes, it means first emperor) managed to pull it all together. 

Under Qin Shihuang, China enjoyed unprecedented centralization in its approach to political, economic, military, cultural, and diplomatic powers. It seems there was very little that could stop Emperor Qin who had many grandiose ideas that he happily invested funds and people to bring to life. We’ve already mentioned the Great Wall – it was Qin who kicked it off hoping to keep the Hans at bay – but his expansive vision didn’t stop there. He took it to the afterlife too. It was Qin who was responsible for the world’s largest (and probably only) underground army of some 8,000 terracotta soldiers, horses, weapons, and every conceivable comfort an earthly departed emperor could need. 

Sadly, Emperor Qin came unstuck when with his attempt to achieve immortality. Legend has it that his court physicians concocted an alchemical formulation that poisoned him, however despite this rather unhappy end, he’s enjoyed an immortality of sorts with the Great Wall and Terracotta Army still standing as lasting legacies of his reign.

Genghis Khan (1162 AD – 1227 AD): The Mongol Empire 

Genghis Khan was born in the Mobei grassland in 1162. From a family of warriors, it’s hardly a surprise that he continued in the family tradition. Historical relics indicated Genghis Khan established the Great Mongol Kingdom in 1206, and may indeed have carried a dual title of emperor and Great Khan.

Under Genghis Khan, the Mongol Empire expanded significantly. Under his rule, the Genghis Khan code Yassa – the world’s first written code – was developed, and the Mongolian Aristocratic republic system, based on aristocratic democracy, was established.

Wu Zetian (624 AD – 705 AD) – Holy God Emperor 

Wu Zhao was the recognized female emperor. She entered court at the age of 14 as a cairen server for Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty and wasn’t promoted for 12 years. Highly skilled at navigating the intrigue and troubles of court life, Wu finally became queen in 655, staying in that position until 683. At that time, her title was Queen of Heaven and Two Holy Gods’  with Emperor Gaozong, however Gaozong didn’t particularly enjoy politics and was prone to dizziness, so Wu did what any good Queen of Heaven would. She stepped into the fray and became the Empress Dowager of Tang Zhongzong and Tang Ruizong. Finally in 690, she became the empress regnant of the Wu Zhou. 

While her life and court was filled with intrigue, power games, and murder, Wu did implement many positive measures during her time as a leader, with agricultural development, water conservation, and academic prowess through imperial examinations among her achievements.

The Last Emperor: Aisin Gioro Puyi

The last emperor of the Qing dynasty was also the last Chinese emperor. Puyi came to power at a time in China when great change was afoot. Things only accelerated under his time as emperor, as he was himself drawn by influences from the West. In 1911, revolution broke out in China, and in 1912 Puyi abdicated, bringing an end to Qing dynasty rule. After the September 18 Incident (Mukden Incident) in 1931, Puyi was installed as a puppet emperor in Manchukuo by the Japanese until 1945, when the Japanese surrendered. Puyi was caught by the Soviet Red Army trying to escape and escorted back to China where he was imprisoned and reformed at the Fushun War Criminals Management Center. In 1959 he received an amnesty decree and later became a member of the China National Committee. He finished life as an ordinary Chinese citizen, marrying a regular Chinese woman (his fourth marriage and fifth wife), finally dying of kidney cancer in 1967 at 61 years of age. The first half of Puyi’s life is shared in his autobiography, however there have been numerous adaptations of his life by others. Perhaps the most notable of these is The Last Emperor, an Oscar winning film based on his life story.

Fascinated by the life and times of Chinese emperors? We are too!

The rich legacy left by China’s emperors infiltrates every aspect of Chinese history, and we can showcase it to you on one of our fully guided multi-day small group and private tours. Our team of travel consultants can advise on enriching activities and experiences that will make for beautiful travel memories from your China vacation. Reach out – We are here to help!

If you’ve ever looked at the traditional Chinese architecture of any ancient building you could be deceived into thinking it all looks the same. 

From colorful artwork to gilded animals, symmetrical design with a deeper meaning, and ornate curved roof corners, it can be very confusing to the Western eye. You might be left wondering What does it all mean?

This is a great question – and one which is best addressed by learning a little about the characteristics of ancient Chinese architecture because it’s in that deeper study we’ll find the answers to other intriguing questions.

Why are traditional Chinese houses (and palaces) built within compounds?

Why is symmetry so important in Chinese architecture?

Why is wood use so prevalent in Chinese buildings?

We know that if it’s your first visit to China, all the pagodas, temples, and imperial palaces can blend into an architectural blur. 

Westerners might agree that Chinese history and traditions are fascinating – and it’s true; it is. What they may not realize is ancient Chinese architecture is integral to China’s culture and traditions – and it endures today, some 4,000 years after the first principles were developed. 

Ready to learn a little about the characteristics of Chinese architecture? 

Let’s do this!

Understand these 7 characteristics of Chinese architecture and know what you’re looking at

It’s said that while Chinese architecture drew influences from India and its Buddhism, in fact, Chinese architecture has inspired architecture and design in neighbouring countries, particularly in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.

These influences are evident in the characteristics of Chinese architecture and that’s what we cover here. Although there are many unique elements to Chinese architecture, we’ll cover just seven. That way, when you’re traveling China on your first China tour, you’ll have a handle on the basics, allowing you to enjoy a more enriching experience through your understanding.

#1 Special roof molding

Look upon just about any traditional building of significance in China and you’ll notice the distinctive wing angle warping of the roof.

Ancient Chinese books describe this style of roof as ‘flying like a bird’ and while this is a poetic description, the curved design is very practical in nature too. In fact, the upturned corner is ideal for buildings that are supported by columns rather than walls, as the majority of traditional Chinese buildings are. 

Like many aspects of Chinese architecture, the functional aligns to more esoteric considerations. In this instance, the curved roof arose from the Buddhist belief that it could ward off evil spirits, which were thought to only travel in straight lines. 

Curved roof tips are very traditionally Chinese, however, they aren’t found on every ancient Chinese building. They are most commonly on prominent imperial and religious buildings, rather than houses owned by commoners.

#2 Tall building platform (taixie 台榭 )

Another peculiar feature of Chinese architecture is the use of a taixie or high platform. This is where a wooden or stone frame is built around an earthen core, thereby providing support for a tall structure.

Through his study of Chinese architecture, Sicheng Liang identified that traditional Chinese buildings are characterized by three integrated levels: the platform base, body of the house and the rooftop. The platform or taixie works like our feet do. They support the house and roof. And the logic which flows from this? The larger and more robust the platform, the greater the size (including height) of the building.

#3 Symbolic decoration

One thing that catches the eye of most Western travelers to China is the way in which the design of traditional Chinese buildings does double duty as a decoration.

From features, like ridge lip and eave tiles to magnificent doors, stunning windows, and ornate door-knockers, Chinese buildings are a canvas for decorative design and patterns. Many of these decorative features are exquisite wood carvings and work alongside the more functional elements of the main building, which were made typically from wood. It goes without saying the decoration was pivotal – and still is Chinese architectural design.

#4 One complex, multiple courtyards

A first visit to the Forbidden City and visitors are struck by one thing: the number of thresholds and internal courtyards one must walk through to reach the inner sanctum.

Traditional Chinese architecture is characterized by a design that reflects a complex of buildings (siheyuan, the courtyard houses) that enclose open spaces. These enclosed spaces are found as courtyards (an empty space surrounded by buildings) and ‘sky wells’ (an opening to the sky within buildings located close together). Providing visibility, ventilation, and temperature regulation, courtyards were (and still are) valued spaces in which people can congregate and enjoy comfort and privacy. 

In ancient Chinese architecture, the courtyard is believed to reflect the spiritual core of a building complex and the Confusian philosophy that there was a movement from outer to the inner world.  Practically this played out as visitors would need to step across an ever-tightening perimeter that reflected a corresponding reduction in access.

#5 Application of colour

The Xizhou Dynasty (also referred to as the Western Zhou Dynasty of 1046-256 BCE) saw the advent of color used in Chinese architecture, most notably as a feature that distinguished rank and nobility. During this period, the stigma, guardrail, beam and wall of imperial palaces were painted. Over time, vibrant colors became symbolic and were associated with certain architectural features. 

These symbolic hues were a further representation of the intricate nature of Chinese architecture. Here’s just a sample of the meaning behind color and features in a typical ancient Chinese building.

• Black was used during the Qin dynasty, which was dominated by warring states.
• During the Han dynasty, the theory of yin-yang and five elements was developed, and then applied in building design.
• Individual colors represent the orientation of a building or design feature. For example, cyan symbolizes the Azure Dragon and represents (east); red symbolizes the Vermillion Bird (south); white symbolizes the White Tiger (west); black symbolizes Black Tortoise (North), a powerful deity in Taoism (north); yellow is symbolic of the Yellow Dragon and the center.
• Ceilings were generally painted green, while pillars were painted red, gold and blue. Columns and walls were painted red.

Just by looking at the color palette used in a traditional Chinese building, you can interpret the meaning and symbolism that were important in the design. Because the elements of Chinese architecture remained unchanged for around 4,000 years, this understanding provides deep insights into many traditional and ancient buildings that can be discovered on a China tour.

#6 Symmetry and asymmetry

Another unique feature of traditional Chinese architecture is its symmetry. Whether you lived in a palace or a rural farmhouse, integrating symmetry was vital to establishing and maintaining balance. Structures were built on a north-south axis and with two wings to reflect the desire for bilateral symmetry. This approach is found in most palaces, temples, tombs, Yamen offices, and academies.

The approach to traditional gardens and courtyards was different, where an asymmetrical approach was adopted. Allowing more flexibility and freedom in design, the overarching principle is one that reflects harmony with nature.

#7 A predominance of wood

Wood is the dominant material used in ancient Chinese architecture, including across all three components of a structure: the foundation platform, the timber frame, and the heavily decorated roof.

Of these, perhaps the most highly regarded feature is the load-bearing articulated timber frame which did not require glue or nails). Wood was also incorporated into ornamentation, from paper-covered wooden strips to lattice ceilings and recessed ceiling panels, while dougong – interlocking wooden brackets (joinery) – became one of the most important aspects of traditional Chinese architecture. A visit to the Forbidden City and Summer Palace on a Beijing tour provides an insight to some of the finest examples of the use of wood in Chinese architecture.

A final word

There is no better way to gain an appreciation of the complexity, intelligence, and ingenuity applied in traditional Chinese architectural design than to experience it firsthand. Only then is it possible to appreciate the way it reveals each layer; a fact observed by the master of Chinese architecture himself, Mr. Sicheng Liang when he likened traditional Chinese architecture to opening a scroll painting that progressively reveals the overall meaning.

** Information for this article was sourced from Wikipedia, Ancient History Encyclopedia, and Princeton University Press.

ChinaTours.com is dedicated to helping western travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere enjoy an authentic experience of China, including those keen to learn and appreciate more of China’s culture and traditions, including Chinese architectural design. Many of our tours are culture-focused, offering the chance to dive deep into your exploration and learning. We can also tailor a tour that covers an area or region that is of particular interest to you. Want to know more? Just ask us! We’re here to share your passion for learning and all things culture-related. Enquire via our contact form and we’ll respond within 24 hours.

Buddhism in China is woven into the country’s rich history and culture. This interconnectedness makes it virtually impossible to complete your travels without gaining some perspective and understanding of how this religion has impacted the life, spiritual pursuits, philosophy, and learnings of Chinese people for thousands of years.

While the origins of Buddhism in China have long been debated, there is a general consensus that it is part of the country’s cultural fabric, having survived the impact of competing ideologies such as Confucianism, Taoism, and Mahayana Buddhism throughout the many dynasties.

At its heart, Buddhism values enlightenment of the human soul and morality. Buddhist believers practise discovering the truth of life and the universe in accordance with the methods practised by Siddhartha, the founder of Buddhism, and a prince of Kapilavastu. The ultimate goal is to transcend life, death, and suffering.

Historians believe that Buddhism reached China in the north via the ancient Silk Road of Northwest India. It is believed to have also reached China’s shores in the south coming across the sea.

Buddhism in China differs from Indian cultural traditions, although the translation of Indian Buddhist scriptures began as soon as these arrived in China. These were embraced by Chinese Buddhist monks who learned the scriptures and became responsible for search, interpretation and teaching to the people. Chinese translation of Buddhist scriptures is said to be the most comprehensive, systematic, and complete, and it’s not hard to see why when you discover the proliferation of temples, statues, and more, which are evidence of the deep impact of Buddhism on Chinese culture.

A visit to China will reveal the connections in many ways. Pagodas, temples, caves, statues, scriptures, precious objects, art, and music have all been influenced and created in reverence to Buddhism in China. In fact, there is an overwhelming number in every destination that it can be very difficult for outsiders to understand the relevance and significance.

One distinct difference between Buddhism in China and its original teachings is that Buddha is both a god to be prayed to, as well as a spiritual teacher. The popularity of Buddhism over Confucianism and Taoism is its emphasis on karma and reincarnation. That said, there was a convergence of all three such that visitors will find some shrines allow for the worship of all three. Major sects within Buddhism in China include Chan (or Zen) school, which became known for its less orthodox methods of teaching and the way it made enlightenment more accessible to common people; Tiantai; and Pure Land Buddhism. The Mahayana school of Buddhism is by far and away from the most prominent in China today.

Visit the highlights of Buddhism in China

Having infiltrated so much of China’s history, it’s difficult to distill the highlights of Buddhism in China for a western traveler. Whether you’re planning a first time or you’ve enjoyed multiple trips to China, there is no doubt you’ll feel drawn to every corner of the country. So, to make things easier (or maybe it makes things harder!), we’ve put together our list of must-see Buddhist highlights for western travelers in China. 

White Horse Temple, Luoyang

Considered “the cradle of Chinese Buddhism”, White Horse Temple was the first temple established in China in 68 AD at the time of Emperor Ming of the Han dynasty. The significance of the temple has been preserved and renovated, along with the original stone statues that give the temple its name and many of the glorious halls and gardens can be found in this fascinating complex.

Leshan Giant Buddha, Leshan

From every perspective, you will be amazed at the scale and craftsmanship of the world’s largest and tallest stone Buddha statue, carved into the sandstone cliff where the Min, Qingyi and Dadu rivers come together. From the water, it appears awesome and from the top, you’ll appreciate the intricacies of the carving as well as the beauty and significance of the amazing natural site directly facing Mt Emei near Chengdu. Built over 1200 years ago and taking 90 years to complete, this giant Buddha statue towers 71 meters above the rivers. Breathtaking!

Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an

Every child growing up in China knows Monkey King, and not surprisingly, so do many people from all over the world. What you may not know is the connection between Monkey King and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an. Construction of the pagoda was suggested by none other than Master Xuanzang whose adventures were captured in the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. Master Xuanzang traveled to India to learn Buddhism and it was on this journey he found three disciples, one of whom was Monkey King. Master Xuanzang also returned from these travels with over 600 Buddhist scriptures which he diligently translated. These Buddhist scriptures and treasures were stored in none other than the Big Wild Goose Pagoda with construction commencing in 652AD. And while earthquakes, groundwater, and age have contributed to a definite lean that is apparent in the pagoda, it continues to be a Xi’an must-see highlight (even though it’s undergone reconstruction several times since).

Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang

Be amazed at the number, scale and wonder of some of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art to be found in caves excavated from limestone cliffs, located in an area of scenic natural environment. At the Longmen Grottoes you will marvel at the sheer number and artistry of the exquisite collection of over a remarkable 100,000 Buddhist sculptures scattered over thousands of large and small caves, covering an extensive area. The smallest statue is tinier than a finger – the largest ten times human size. Hear from your guide the stories behind the development, destruction and conservation of the grottoes.

Shaolin Temple, Dengfeng

Feel the history of China and Zen Buddhism evident in the multiple halls and building clusters comprising the temple buildings, first established in the 5th century when the first Indian master brought the religion to China. Even the martial arts for which monks have become famous have an evolving story. Shaolin Temple is home to the legendary Chinese Kung Fu and Chinese Zen Buddhism. Enter through the grand white gate carrying an inscription from Emperor Kangxi to view the many temple halls with their inner decorations. Just as amazing is the extensive pagoda forest – tombs commemorating monks revered over different dynasties.

Mogao Caves, Dunhuang

Boasting over 700 caves, 2,000 painted statues, and 40 thousand square meters of mural paintings, the Mogao Grottoes are spectacular on another level. Frequently referred to as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes or Caves of the Thousand Buddhas, the thousands of carvings found here have survived centuries – a marvel in itself – and a visit will inspire awe and wonder.

Potala Palace, Lhasa

A magnificent icon of Tibet, visiting Potala Palace will be a travel memory you’ll always treasure. Apart from its status as a surprising exemplar of architectural design, Potala Palace is a place where reverence meets wonder. Both pilgrims and travelers alike sense how special it is, regardless of their origins. Formerly the residence of the Dalai Lama, you’ll discover the history behind this sacred, mysterious palace, which dates back to the 7th century. There’s no question about its inclusion on the list of best places to visit in China.

Po Lin Monastery and The Big Buddha, Hong Kong

Relatively young by China’s standards, Po Lin Monastery is a Buddhist monastery that was originally known as ‘Big Thatched Hut’ when it was first established on Lantau Island over 100 years ago. The monastery is a place of tranquility and serenity, while the monks who live there – remain committed to creating a place where they can practise and spread Dharma. The Big Buddha Statue – also known as the Tian Tan Buddha – sits at the front of the monastery. It is the second largest outdoor Buddha statue in the world. At 34 meters in height and weighing just over 200 tonnes, locals and visitors alike visit here in reverence – and we feel sure you will too.

Drepung Monastery, Lhasa

Be honored visiting the center of learning and one of the most sacred monasteries in Tibet, regarded as analogous with the Sorbonne or Oxford. Around 300 monks study at the center. The biggest event is the giant thangka unveiling of Buddha’s picture during the Shoton Festival.

Lama Temple, Beijing

Yonghe Temple, also known as the Lama Temple, is a functioning Tibetan Buddhist temple with its art treasures that has survived many changes to survive to today when it is a popular site for locals and visitors alike. The fact the monastery is still operating is all the more remarkable for the fact that construction commenced centuries ago in 1694 during the Qing dynasty when it was built as the residence of Prince Yong who later became Yongzheng Emperor. In 1725, it was converted to a temporary imperial palace called Yonghe Palace.

In 1711, Qianlong Emperor, the fourth son of the Yongzheng Emperor, was born in this building. Because two emperors were associated with location, it was considered most auspicious and regarded as a ‘blessed land that gives birth to emperors’. As such, it acquired the rights to use yellow glazed tiles and red walls, just as is used at the Forbidden City. In 1744, it was converted to a lamasery by the edict of the Qianlong Emperor and then became the administrative center of Tibetan Buddhism. The building is considered the perfect fusion of Han (Chinese) Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism, through the style of buildings and artworks. Today, a continuous stream of worshippers and pilgrims visit the temple, especially on the first day of Chinese New Year. The famous cham dance by the monks of Yonghe temple during the Dharma Assembly (usually held in the last week of the first lunar month and lasts 8 days) is the main highlight of this temple.

Lingyin Temple, Hangzhou

With a history of almost 1,700 years, Lingyin Temple is one of the ten famous Chan Buddhist temples in China. The original founder was an Indian monk, Huili, who traveled from middle China to Hangzhou in 326 AD. It is one of the wealthiest temples in China and features numerous pagodas, grottoes, and religious carvings, many dating back to an era of prosperity nearly two millennia previously when thousands of monks were housed there. Lingyin Temple stands on the northwestern corner of West Lake and has been rebuilt many times during its history. It is now regarded as one of the most important Buddhist temples, appealing to pilgrims and travelers alike. The practice of Kau Chim (a fortune telling practice, also known as Chinese Fortune Sticks) conducted in Lingyin Temple is very popular and held in great regard among locals and visitors.

A final word on Buddhism in China

So there you have it. A bucket list of Buddhism in China highlights, which can be found in virtually every corner of the country. If you’re thinking this is exactly the kind of cultural experience you want to include in your travels, be sure to speak with a China travel specialist who can help you understand how to make the most of your valuable time while you’re in-country. We have a dedicated team of consultants whose job is to craft and design the kind of tour you’ll savor long after arriving home.

Fascinated by China and its rich cultural history, including Buddhism? Why not make your curiosity a feature of your travel in China. Join a fully guided multi-day small group or private tour. Our team of travel consultants can advise on enriching activities like visiting the numerous Buddhist highlights in China to be found throughout the country. Ready to make beautiful travel memories on your China vacation? We’re here to help!

This do’s and don’ts in China is back pocket material to keep you out of trouble on your China tour.

From table manners to Chinese temple etiquette, we know you’ll want to avoid any embarrassing moments on your China tour. That’s why our outstanding local guides, working in destinations all across China share these top tips.

Good manners in China

It pays to know that although Chinese people have been greatly influenced by the modern outside world, they remain strongly steeped in tradition and reading the do’s and don’ts in China provided below will help you understand the Chinese traditions and allow you to save face and act like a local!

1. Table manners in China

To dine in China is not just to eat but to experience and share in good company. Different from western society, Chinese people practice a ‘gather dining system’. That means dishes are placed communally in the center of the dining table and everyone is encouraged to help themselves.

While the emphasis is on eating well, there are still a few do’s and don’ts to remember.

Chinese table manners – do’s

Allow for elders to be seated first. Following this, you will be instructed where to sit. when dining with elders, it is also impolite to begin eating before they do.

It is suggested to engage in each toast, saying the phrase ‘gan bei’ before finishing your drink – pronounced ‘gun bay’ – which means ‘dry cup’.

Try everything. At dinner, it is both polite and encouraged to sample every dish available and remarking aloud with ‘eating noises’ that you enjoy the food. “Mmm, Delicious!”

Feel free to drink from the bowl, as will everyone else, or using your fingers to eat things like shrimp or chicken. Just make sure that you’re not touching food that isn’t already on your own plate.

Chopsticks are the most versatile tool you’ll find on Chinese dining tables. Even if you’re not an expert. Give them a go. Your Chinese host will love it!

Chinese table manners – don’ts

Never leave chopsticks upright in your food, like incense sticks! This symbolizes death because it is similar to the ceremony that Chinese people use to pray for someone who has passed and is considered bad luck.

Avoid tapping the bowl with your chopsticks and never point them at other people when dining. This is considered to be extremely rude and best to be avoided entirely.

Do NOT use your own chopsticks to put food on your plate – this will have everybody else turning up their nose! Use

the serving chopsticks or ladles provided to show proper table manners.

While tipping is not a common practice in Chinese restaurants, in Chinese culture, asking someone to dinner means you just offered to pay for the bill.

2. Gift giving and receiving gifts in China

In Chinese society, it is often the case, that people are likely to decline the offer a few times before accepting a gift, as a way of showing modesty.

When gifting in China, you’ll definitely want to avoid the following things that may cause insult and misunderstanding.

Gift giving and receiving gifts in China – do’s

Offer your gift with both hands. This is considered respectful in China, and in exchange, gifts should be received with both hands.

It is customary in Chinese culture to refuse to accept a gift once or twice before accepting it. Respectfully declining, to show one is modest before accepting the gift, is commonplace in Chinese culture and this may be done several times. So don’t be discouraged when giving gifts, but don’t be too eager upon receiving one either!

Gifting fresh produce such as fruit or other treats is very polite in Chinese culture, especially if presented neatly with a box or basket.

When giving gifts from your home country, Chinese people usually appreciate gifts along the lines of souvenirs, cigarettes, and alcohol, in lieu of this a reputable Chinese brand is also a satisfactory gift.

Gift giving and receiving gifts in China – don’ts

Avoid giving a clock as a gift. To say “sending a clock” in Chinese is the same as saying “attending a funeral”. Therefore, sending a clock to someone as a gift in China is usually regarded as cursing someone to die. This is obviously extremely impolite to give as a gift to anyone. Similarly, scissors and other sharp objects do not make proper gifts either, as they represent the severing of relationships.

Never gift white or yellow flowers, particularly chrysanthemums. These are funeral flowers in China. Do not offer them as gifts to anyone, especially to elderly people, patients, or someone who is sick.

Don’t send pears or umbrellas to your Chinese friends in a relationship! Especially newly married couples, because the Chinese pronunciation of “pear” is exactly the same as “divorce”. In the same way, saying “umbrella” in Chinese implies “separation”.  Sending these gifts to Chinese couples is strongly regarded as cursing them to be apart.

When wrapping your gift, to be on the safe side, use red wrapping paper. While other festive colors can be used, they seldom are. Never wrap in any dark color, black, dark blues, and purples, etc. Stick with red, and you can’t go wrong!

Chinese people usually think it is impolite to open the gift in front of the sender. So do not feel frustrated if they decide not to open the gift in front of you. So when you receive a gift, avoid hastily unwrapping it. Unless indicated by the person presenting you with the gift, It is advised to open the gifts after you leave.

3. Important cultural do’s and don’ts in China

Chinese cultural etiquette – do’s

Punctuality is an important virtue in China, as it shows respect for others, so always be on time. Arrive slightly before important engagements or events, as being a little earlier than the appointed time shows your character and respect of others time.

Be aware, the number four is highly regarded as ‘the unluckiest number’ in Chinese culture, as it has the same pronunciation as “death” in Chinese. So don’t be shocked to find the fourth or fourteenth floor of a building has been changed or altered when traveling around China.

Chinese cultural etiquette – don’ts

Don’t be taken aback when asked personal questions regarding age, relationships, family, what you do for work, or even income. This is considered Chinese-style small talk and is perfectly polite within Chinese society.

Avoid being too physical when meeting Chinese people for the first time. They will find this very uncomfortable from a stranger. A handshake and a smile or simple nod of the head are more than enough to demonstrate your friendliness.

Similarly, avoid public displays of affection. China is a very reserved society and generally looks down upon these. Remain mindful of this and your China tour will be an unforgettable one.

4. Exploring China’s Tibetan Temples or Monasteries? Some valuable do’s and don’ts

Cultural etiquette in Tibet – do’s

• Take off your hat as a sign of respect when entering temples.
• Always walk clockwise when inside a monastery or temple.
• Be sure to donate a couple of yuan to religious beggars. This is considered an act of good karma in Tibetan culture.

Cultural etiquette in Tibet – don’ts

• Don’t photograph people. Tibetans do not appreciate being photographed. However, if you ask permission first, this is usually acceptable.
• Don’t touch a Tibetan on the head. Tibetans believe God resides in your head and may be offended if you touch them here.
• Don’t step on a lama’s shadow or walk between a person praying to the Buddha and the statue.
• Don’t point directly. If you want to indicate a statue and have to use your hand you should gesture palm up, fingers flat and together, in that direction.

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