Xian China Travel Tips

Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Xi’an, China

Before You Go

  • Research: Learn about Chinese customs, history, and culture to avoid unintentionally offending locals.
  • Visa: Check if you need a visa to enter China and apply in advance.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations.

Respecting Local Culture

  • Dress Modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or mosques.
  • Remove Shoes: Take off your shoes when entering homes, temples, or mosques as a sign of respect.
  • Use Both Hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect.

Interacting with Locals

  • Learn Basic Chinese Phrases: Show appreciation for the culture by learning basic phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ).
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Xi’an is a popular tourist destination, so be patient and prepared for large crowds.
  • Avoid Public Displays of Affection: In China, public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

Table Manners

  • 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.
  • Try a Little of Everything: It’s considered impolite to refuse food offered by your host.
  • Don’t Finish a Meal Completely: Leaving a small amount of food on your plate indicates that you were provided with enough.

Visiting Historical Sites

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and climbing.
  • Respect Restrictions: Follow rules and restrictions at historical sites, such as no flash photography or no touching artifacts.
  • Be Mindful of Your Voice: Keep your voice down when visiting temples or mosques.

Tipping

  • Tipping is Not Expected: In China, tipping is not expected but is becoming more common in tourist areas.
  • Round Up the Bill: If you want to show appreciation for good service, round up the bill to the nearest 10 RMB (Chinese yuan).

Staying Safe

  • Be Aware of Pickpocketing: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Use Authorized Taxis: Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing to avoid scams.
  • Carry a Hotel Card: Carry a card with your hotel’s name and address in Chinese to show taxi drivers.

Miscellaneous

  • Learn to Use a Squat Toilet: Many public restrooms in China have squat toilets, so it’s essential to learn how to use them.
  • Download Useful Apps: Download apps like WeChat or Google Translate to help you navigate Xi’an and communicate with locals.
  • Bring Earplugs: Xi’an can be noisy, especially at night, so consider bringing earplugs to get a good night’s sleep.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Xi’an like a pro and show respect for the local culture. Happy travels!