Cultural Etiquette 101: How Not to Offend People Around the World

What is cultural etiquette?

Cultural etiquette is the guidelines for how to behave in a particular culture, so as not to cause offence or disrespect the local traditions and ways of life. Each culture is unique, and what is considered polite in one culture may be rude in another. For this reason, it’s a good idea to research your destination to ensure your cultural etiquette meets expectations. Here’s our cultural etiquette guide 101 for around the world.

Here is our guide to not offend anyone in the following destinations:

Japan

In Japan, it’s expected to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home. For comfort, Japanese homes always have slippers for guests to wear indoors. You’ll also be required to take off your shoes in temples and even some restaurants—if in doubt, watch what the locals do.

It might seem a productive way to get things done, but in Japan walking whilst eating or smoking is considered impolite. When smoking, stand in a designated smoking area to avoid passing on your second-hand smoke.

When dining out, you’ll need to master the art of using chopsticks and follow a few rules when eating to show respect. The first is never to place your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice—this is a ritual used exclusively at funeral services. Chopsticks should also not be crossed, and if sharing food with others it's impolite to pass food with chopsticks that have touched your mouth. Finally, always place your chopsticks back on their rest when not using them to keep them clean.

China

In China, cultural etiquette is unique and important to be aware of. The Chinese hold their elders in high regard, and an older person should be greeted first as a sign of respect.

Physical contact is different to that of Western cultures - hugs and kisses can be overfamiliar in China, and firm handshakes can be interpreted as aggressive. In terms of gestures, pointing at people is considered rude and should be avoided.

When it comes to dining, noodles are actually a symbol of long life, so it is considered a faux pas to cut them, no matter how long or difficult they are to eat!

Finally, if you’re invited out to dinner, don’t grab a seat at the table. Seats are allocated according to importance, with the most important person sitting closest to the host. Practise good cultural etiquette by waiting to be assigned a seat.

India

If you’re visiting India, it’s important to observe the cultural etiquette, especially regarding parts of the body. Feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body, and should not be pointed towards people or sacred buildings like temples. You should always remove your shoes before entering a temple, and there is often a place to store your shoes safely (where it is recommended to leave a small tip).

In India, food is often eaten without utensils, and it is considered normal to eat with your hands—just make sure you wash them first. The left hand is only to be used for washing yourself, therefore you should avoid eating or passing food with it.

Thailand

On a trip to Thailand, you’ll likely visit many of the wonderful temples across the country. Cultural etiquette states that you should cover your shoulders, knees, and sometimes your head before entering—we recommend carrying a shawl or long scarf in your bag for these occasions.

Like in India, feet are considered dirty and shoes should be removed before entering temples and people’s homes. If you see a line of shoes outside a building, you should follow suit and remove yours.

Finally, it’s appropriate and respectful to return the ‘wai’ greeting - putting your hands together in a prayer position and bowing your head, upon receiving this from others. It’s a welcoming and friendly gesture that shows respect to the locals.

Saudi Arabia

Like in India, the left hand in Saudi Arabia is used primarily for cleaning and therefore should be avoided for things like eating, waving, shaking hands and passing things.

Saudi Arabia is a Muslim country, and therefore the consumption of alcohol is forbidden. During the month of Ramadan, it’s considered impolite to consume food and drink or to smoke in front of those observing the daylight fasting—having these things visible can even result in fines.

In Saudi Arabian culture, it’s important to pay your respects to elders at all times, offering them a seat wherever necessary. Finally, public displays of affection must be avoided, including kissing and holding hands.

South Korea

Korean cultural etiquette is rooted in traditional family values and should be respected at all times. Shoes should be taken off before entering any building, and you should greet people with a short bow, and a double-handed soft handshake.

When eating, similar to Japan, chopsticks should not be placed upright in a bowl and should be returned to their place once you’ve finished your meal. Unlike India, in South Korea, you should avoid using your hands when eating, instead always using chopsticks or utensils provided. When dining with others, don’t start eating until the elder of the table has begun—this is a sign of respect.

Finally, to practise good cultural etiquette, avoid pointing, and pass and receive objects using both hands.

Long story short…

A little bit of knowledge can go a long way, and it’s important to research the cultural etiquette in the place you’re heading before you arrive. This way, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your experience without worrying about causing offence. You can be a great example to your fellow tourists, and you might even impress the locals with your impeccable etiquette!

Written by Alex Callahan