8 things to know before going to China
Once distant and unreachable even in the imagination of the most reckless traveler, today China is one of the most desirable places if you long for a country full of charm and mystery, where the most beautiful skyline in the world blend with natural landscapes of great beauty that celebrate the relationship of man's harmony with Nature. But before leaving for the journey that will inspire your life, here is an essential handbook to make this experience unforgettable.
1. Linguistic Curiosities
The official language of the People's Republic of China, spoken on television and taught in schools, is the Phutonghua, which is the dialect spoken in Beijing and known throughout the Western world as Mandarin Chinese. Translated literally as a "common language", Phutonghua is currently the most widely spoken language in the world, with 1.3 billion speakers, and is one of the six official languages of the UN. Unlike the Latin derivation languages, Mandarin Chinese has no alphabet, but boasts a writing system of very ancient origins based on special characters with a mysterious charm. Being a tonal language, the meaning of the syllables is determined by precise variations in tone, so pay attention to how you pronounce some syllables", if you do not want to confuse a mother with a horse!
2. Numbers talk
In China, numbers have a high symbolic value: the number 4, for example, is considered as bad luck because it is pronounced in a similar way to “death”; while the number 8 is synonymous with prosperity and wealth thanks to a pronunciation that recalls the verb “to enrich”.
3. China, people’s pride
Called Zhongguo, ie "Middle Kingdom", for being considered the center of the world by its inhabitants, China can still boast a strong nationalistic attachment from its people. And it is precisely this national pride that represents one of the strengths of the Chinese people, deeply linked to their culture and traditions. For this reason, respecting its uses and customs, avoiding critical opinions and comments, can be the right key to establish important and lasting relationships.
4. The power of community
Forbidden any individualistic attitude, typical of Western culture. In China the value of sharing has always been the foundation of a society in which the well-being of the community is considered a priority with respect to individual happiness. Thus, the Chinese often do what others do, think about what others might think and make decisions collectively, always seeking harmony within a group.
5. Before leaving...get informed
Thanks to its 6000 years of history, Chinese culture brings with it a heritage of priceless traditions, stories and legends. Some research before departure will help you become familiar with a culture that has made respect and honor your business card, thanks to the loyalty to the principles of Taoism and Confucianism. So no direct criticism if you don’t want to spoil a potential friendship!
6. Let’s say “yes” to modesty
Confidentiality, discretion and courtesy characterize the Chinese mentality, light years away from exhibitionism and self-ostentation. You will never see a compliment immediately accepted, but on the contrary they will always tell you that it is exaggerated or undeserved. You will find similar behavior during any gift exchanges, when the person who offers the present must insist several times to allow the guest to accept. Be careful not to give watches, traditionally considered a death sentence, umbrellas, symbolizing a farewell, or green hats, signs of betrayal.
7. Etiquette to be respected
In the country of the Dragon there is a strict etiquette that should be respected if you want to be seen as a keqi, that is "the well-known guest". A light handshake, accompanied by a small inclination of the head, will be the ideal way to present or greet, while embracing the interlocutor will be considered an unacceptable gesture. During a dinner, however, the landlord will begin the banquet serving the best dish to the guest of honor who, after trying a little of each dish, will have to leave some leftovers to prove that you have eaten enough. It is essential to learn how to use chopsticks in the right way to not send wrong signals to their guests. So be careful not to tap the sticks on the edge of the bowl - the sound would remind that made by beggars to attract 'attention - or not to place them vertically in a bowl of rice - not to remind your neighbor of ritual of the burning incense, symbol of death.
8. With WeChat ... you are just one click away
Completely forget Facebook and Whatsapp and immerse yourself in an amazing virtual journey thanks to WeChat, an application originally dedicated to texting and has become indispensable for our almond-eyed cousins, thanks to its multi-functionality. From food purchased on the street to booking a medical examination, everything can be just a click away ... like a real digital wallet.
“It would take a hundred lives to get to know China", Confucius stated around 500 a. C. ... Let’s start now.
