Walking Etiquette

Since China is one of the oldest living civilizations on Earth, its culture has evolved through millennia, and if you visit, you may find that it differs somewhat from your own. What is socially acceptable in the West may be frowned upon in China, and the opposite is also true! So it seems sense that someone visiting China for the first time could feel a little overwhelmed.

Walking etiquette is something that everyone should be aware of. People of lower social classes are expected to kneel when passing by those of higher social standing as a sign of respect since ancient times. According to the rule of walking etiquette, no one should cross a street in the middle without first crossing both sides, and no one should stand in the middle of a door. This not only conveys respect but also makes room for others. You should walk in a clockwise direction when touring a temple or monastery.