Culture Shock in China

Although moving to another country is fun, exciting and exhilarating, the lifestyle transformation and cultural differences can make it hard for foreign teachers to settle down. As a foreigner living in China, chances are you’re going to experience things that will surprise you. This guide will point out some of the main cultural differences that you will encounter regularly in China.

 

 

Language Barrier

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The greatest challenge for a foreigner to live in China is the language barrier. The English speaking abilities of the majority of the Chinese population are extremely poor. This is especially so in regions and cities where foreigners are scarce. It is highly recommended that you learn basic Chinese phrases before you go to China.

 

 

The Education System

 

In South Africa, our education system is fairly relaxed. However, in China, education is an extremely serious matter. This is mainly due to the large population of China and the associated high level of competition. 

 

Children in China, have long days at school, and often followed by specialized classes such as language classes, drawing classes and singing classes afterwords. computing classes. And when they got home from their additional classes, they had hours of homework to complete.

 

Currently, efforts are being made to reduce the workload on Chinese children, especially in the major cities.

 

 

Staring

 

In South Africa, it is custom not to stare at people who are different. But in China, they don’t have this social inhibition. As a foreigner in China, you often find yourself drawing a lot of eyeballs. At first, this can feel intrusive and rude. But if you come to accept the cultural difference, you’ll quickly learn to ignore the stares.

 

 

Always Carry a Pack of Tissues

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Tissues are not as widely available in China as in South Africa. Even in the restaurant where you have to pay for them.

 

The majority of public toilets in China like ones you find in restaurants, bars and schools are squat toilets. Most of these toilets don’t have toilet papers.

 

 

Give Face and Lose Face

 

The Chinese concept of "face" refers to a cultural understanding of respect, honour and social standing. Actions or words that are disrespectful may cause somebody to "lose face" while gifts, awards and other respect-giving actions may "give face".

 

As a foreigner, it will often be assumed and accepted that you do not mean to cause someone to lose face. Nevertheless, to avoid uncomfortable situations for your Chinese friends and colleagues, it is important to try to learn at least the basics of this fundamental part of Chinese culture.

 

Here are some basic tips on avoiding causing someone to lose face:

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• Avoid all potential embarrassment for others, especially in public.

• Avoid pointing out someone's mistakes in front of their peers.

• Revealing someone’s lack of ability or knowledge.

 

Here are some basic tips on giving face:

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• Give sincere compliments when they are merited.

• Politely deflect compliments that come your way. 

 

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Spitting

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This Chinese habit maybe seems very peculiar, and probably one of the hardest to get used to. Chinese people especially the older age group doesn't use tissue to blow their nose. Instead of using tissue, they spit the mess out with a big loud snuffle sound.

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This can be done everywhere. While walking on the road you may find the spit lands right ahead of your feet.  

 

However, most of the younger Chinese people don’t spit anymore. The government is also trying to reduce spiting by issuing fines.

 

 

Tons of other customs could be surprising for foreigners, like the Chinese man carrying his women's bag, people crouching instead of sitting, etc. But if you can keep an open mind and are open to new experiences, you'll find the Chinese and their culture to be wonderfully warm and welcoming.

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