There are certain things not to do in Beijing. Why? Well, your life will be much easier with keeping these tips in mind.
1 Don’t eat at a fast food chai
If you are new in the city, you may be tempted to settle for good ol‘ Mc Donalds or the like. The bliss of familiar food and knowing “what you get”. Don’t do it! Beijing has way too many great restaurant options! No matter what cuisine is the one of your choice – Beijing has it. There are authentic pizza and pasta, amazing Tapas, and tasty Burgers available. Do try these. But more importantly: try the Chinese food! Don’t miss the street food options (if the vendor looks decent). If you are not sure what to order, check out our foreigners favorites here.
2 Don’t go for tea with students
Walking around the city as the clueless newbie that you are might attract scams. One of the more popular ones is the English student who wants to practice his English and then invites you to join her with some friends to go the tea house. It’s cute. Well, it’s not. Most likely you will end up receiving a crazy high bill for a few cups of tea that may be (but probably aren’t) high end. Do go to an established Tea House with your friends and look at the menu before ordering.
3 Don’t tip
Tipping is not common in China. In general, it may be perceived as offensive. Unless you are staying in an international 5 Star Hotel, where staff might have gotten used to international practice, don’t tip.
4 Don’t go to Badaling
Badaling is one of the most famous sections of the Great Wall. With roughly 10 million visitors every year, it is also a soaring tourism spot. If you are looking for a cheek to cheek experience, Badaling is the perfect spot. If you are more interested in the overall scenery, try Mutianyu for a less crowded and convenient, yet quite touristy section. For an overview of the Great Wall see our Great Wall post. If you prefer a remote and wild part of the Great Wall, your best bet is a tour with the Beijing Hikers.
5 Don’t stop offering gifts
If you are giving gifts, the natural Chinese response is to refuse the gift at least once, probably twice. Why you may ask? Its Chinese etiquette and considered polite to do so. Insist and offer the gift again, most likely the other party will accept. If you don’t offer several times, this would be impolite from your side. Remember to offer the gift with two hands to show your respect. If you are choosing a gift, avoid clocks, knifes or umbrellas as these hold impolite meanings.
6 Don’t do sightseeing on public holidays
On public holidays, which for a majority of Chinese citizens, are the only days off they get, so expect a lot of fellow tourists on these days. Inbound tourism is peaking, so be prepared for crowds. Your best bet is to avoid the major sightseeing spots during holidays and weekends and try to explore some regular neighborhoods instead.
7 Don’t get offended by personal questions
When meeting someone, you might be caught by surprise when being asked very personal questions like: “Are you married?”, “How much do you earn?”, “Do you own an apartment?” Among others. Don’t get offended. It’s a mix of curiosity, trying to fit you in the pecking order and trying to find common ground. Do feel free to avoid answering these questions with a smiling “it’s a secret” or “it’s complicated”.
8 Don’t underestimate the cities dimensions
Looking at a map you may think „this is just a stone throw away“. Don’t be fooled. It might look close, but it’s probably not. Beijing has heavy traffic congestion, so a short taxi ride might turn into a nightmare, so sometimes it might be better to consider walking (if you are familiar with the area). Try to plan for more time on the road than you would think and you are likely to have a more relaxed time.
So what would you say is the most important of things NOT to do in Beijing? Would you like to add something to our list? Let us know.
