Cultural Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts When Visiting Asian Countries

Cultural diversity in Asia requires treating unique customs, traditions and social norms that are not similar with the western ones. Knowing the local manners will help you avoid unwitting insults and will also help you enjoy your tour at a deeper level through the authentic experience of a local culture. Coming down to the religious idea of saving face to certain body language taboos, these rules can guarantee respectful relationship between different Asian countries.​ If you’re exploring the continent, don’t miss the chance to experience Asia’s Most Scenic Train Journeys that beautifully showcase the region’s culture and landscapes.

Essential Body Language Rules

Follow the head and feet rule: Head is the most sacred component of the body in Southeast Asia- never touch another head, even in a loving manner, as this will disrupt his /her spirituality of kwan (life force). On the other hand, feet are most vulnerable and the dirtiest, therefore, do not point feet to the people or objects as this depicts ultimate disrespect. Chopsticks should not be used in sitting position in the rice bowls as it is a sign of death and is only used during funerals.​

Always keep your hands clean: In most of the Asian societies, the right hand is regarded as clean, whereas the left one is regarded as dirty and associated with bathroom use. Eat, present gifts and shake hands with your right hand. Do not point fingers at individuals or objects but use all your hand, or nod in respect.​

Greetings and Respect for Hierarchy

Respect the seniors: In Asian culture, respect is given to the seniors and should be met with first and they should first speak to them first. In Japan, one must bow respectfully; in China, one must shake the hand with the family name and the title; in India, the traditional namaste gesture is extremely respectful. South Korean business culture has stressed on the use of both hands when handling senior people.​

Dining Etiquette Across Regions

Decrease host-initiated eating: Before you start eating, wait until the eldest person or the host has started eating. In China, it is rude to say no to toasts. In Japan people never pour their own drinks they pour their friends. In some of the Asian countries, this is a compliment to the cook to burp after eating.​

Here are the fallacies of dining:–Never blow your nose at the table–go out if you have to. Accept the food that is offered to you because turning it down is regarded as being very impolite.​

Religious and Spiritual Respect

Wear conservative clothes to religious places and temples. In the Buddhist temples, one should not touch the statue or point feet to statues. Take off shoes when entering Japanese, Korean, or other businesses in Southeast Asia, homes, and temples. The royal family, in Thailand, is highly sacred, as far as it is a serious offense to criticize or disrespect the king and that is lese-majesté law.​

Gift-Giving Customs

Accept and give gifts to others using both hands and being respectful and formal. In Japan and China, before receiving a gift, recipients can turn it down a number of times, it is natural. Gifts that are made of leathers should be avoided in India because cows are holy in the Hinduism religion. It is necessary to make wrapping beautiful because presentation is very important.​

Public Behavior and “Saving Face”

Do not show affection in the streets and do not exhibit loudness in the conservative places- they place a high regard on modesty. Always avoid criticism or disagreement in the open air since it brings shame and disgrace. In case of conflicts, solve them behind the scenes and in a respectful way in order to keep the harmony intact.​

Business and Professional Settings

In Japan and South Korea punctuality is important, whereas in India and Thailand it is not. Where in doubt on the side of more formality, especially in strictly formal situations. A lot of business relationships are formed during a shared meal-time- watch tables and pecking order keenly.​

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