13 Chinese customs that are shocking to foreigners

1. Chopsticks are never placed upright in a rice bowl.

Never leave chopsticks upright in a rice bowl. This is reminiscent of a ritual that's made as an offering to the dead.

Chopsticks should also never be used in your hands when making a gesture.

2. Burping is considered a sign of gratitude.

In China, burping is seen as a sign of satisfaction with the meal and is considered a compliment to the chef, so don't be surprised if it happens at the dinner table.

3. Tea cups are constantly refilled.

This tradition is known as tea tapping. Hosts will regularly ensure that teacups don't go empty and when they refill the cups, the person whose cup is filled will tap the table in response to show thanks.

4. A gift will be refused a number of times before it is accepted.

Don't be offended if you offer a gift and it is refused, as it is customary in China to refuse the first offer. Sometimes, the etiquette is to refuse the gift three times, though it may not always take this many tries.

In general, the expectation is that a gift is politely refused at first, even if it is desired, and will eventually be accepted after a few offers.

5. Spitting loudly in public is common.

It's not surprising to see people spitting in public in China. Attempts are being made to try and lessen the practice, but it isn't considered rude to spit while walking on the street or around others-even on public transportation and sometimes indoors.

6. Police will sometimes use geese instead of guard dogs.

In places like China's Xinjiang province, domesticated geese are used by law enforcement. According to Chinese authorities, they have strong vision, they're loud, and they can be aggressive, which is why they're used in place of guard dogs.

7. Pointing can be considered rude.

8. Compliments shouldn't be accepted graciously.

9. Tipping can be seen as offensive.

10. You may be asked to take photos with locals.

11. Split pants are often used instead of diapers.

12. Full-face masks are sometimes worn to the beach.

13. People regularly take naps on the street.

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