Hong Kong-travel-tips

Hong Kong Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Respect for Tradition

  • Remove your shoes: When entering a traditional Chinese home or temple, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering.
  • Use both hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect.
  • Avoid public displays of affection: Hong Kong is a conservative society, and public kissing or hugging is generally frowned upon.

Table Manners

  • Wait for the host to start eating: Before starting your meal, wait for the host to begin eating first.
  • Use chopsticks correctly: Hold chopsticks in your right hand, with the top chopstick between your thumb and index finger, and the bottom chopstick between your middle finger and ring finger. Never leave your chopsticks standing upright in your rice bowl, as this is reminiscent of a funeral ritual.
  • Try a little of everything: It’s impolite to refuse food offered by your host. Try a small amount of each dish to show appreciation.

Communication

  • Speak softly and politely: Avoid loud or aggressive tones, which may be seen as confrontational.
  • Use respectful titles: Address older individuals with respect titles such as “Uncle” or “Auntie”.
  • Avoid direct confrontation: Hong Kong people tend to avoid direct conflict. Instead, approach sensitive topics indirectly.

Public Etiquette

  • Queue politely: Hong Kong is known for its efficient queuing system. Respect the queue and avoid pushing or cutting in.
  • Give up your seat: Offer your seat to elderly, pregnant, or disabled individuals on public transport.
  • Keep public areas clean: Avoid littering and keep streets and public areas tidy.

Temple Etiquette

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing when visiting temples.
  • Remove hats and sunglasses: Show respect by removing hats and sunglasses before entering a temple.
  • Follow instructions: Pay attention to signs and instructions, such as not taking photos or not pointing with your feet.

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping is not expected: In most cases, tipping is not necessary or expected in Hong Kong.
  • Round up the bill: If you want to show appreciation for good service, round up the bill to the nearest dollar or leave small change (5-10 HKD).

Additional Tips

  • Learn some Cantonese phrases: Show respect by learning basic Cantonese phrases like “hello” (nei5 hou2), “thank you” (do1 ze6), and “excuse me” (deoi3 m4 zyu6).
  • Carry small bills: Many vendors and shops may not have change for large bills, so it’s a good idea to carry small bills (10-50 HKD) for convenience.
  • Stay hydrated: Hong Kong’s humidity can be intense. Bring refillable water bottles and stay hydrated throughout the day.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip in Hong Kong!