China’s Eating etiquettes

1. Rice is typically served with several dishes, all of which are typically arranged in the middle of the table.

2. As you eat yourself, put the things that combine with rice in your rice dish and keep it near your lips.

3. When dining as a visitor at someone’s house, it is customary to try and taste everything that is given.

4. Consuming large amounts of rice without balancing it with other foods is a sign that you dislike the dish.

5. Never consume the last of something that is placed on a serving platter.

6.  Refuse the host’s offer of a second serving once before taking it.

7.  When eating is done, leave a modest bit of food on your plate. An empty plate signifies that you need your plate to be refilled with meals because the host did not supply enough.

8. Any bones or seeds should be put in the designated dish or on the table next to your plate. Never place them back in your dish of rice.

9. After using chopsticks, remove them from the rice bowl. Set them out on the table.

10. Don’t put your chopsticks in a bowl of rice upright. This is said to suggest death since it looks like the incense used at funerals.

Chinese social etiquette and customs: It is a mystery; why do Chinese people consider you polite when slurping your soup whereas rejecting someone’s gift is considered impolite?  Although it seems too ancient, concerning societal norms, manners and etiquette of China are filled with traditions, which aim at ensuring harmony and avoiding offending anyone.  Understanding these distinctions would make an individual more comfortable in social situations as well as business transactions or while eating in the country. 

In this article, we will take a close look at some key issues regarding greetings and gift-giving, dining culture and public behaviour.