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Basic Etiquette

The concept of respect and courtesy may be conveyed differently in Hong Kong compared to Western cultures. It might be reflected in more subtle actions, such as giving way to elders or avoiding direct confrontation.

• Verbal expressions of gratitude are not required for minor gestures of courtesy. While Westerners might expect a "thank you" for holding a door open, in Hong Kong, a simple nod or smile is often sufficient to acknowledge the gesture.
• Bumping into someone on the street is a common occurrence in Hong Kong, and apologies are often seen as unnecessary. It's understood that accidents happen, and a simple "excuse me" or a nod is generally enough.
• It is polite and respectful to give and receive everything with two hands.
• Spitting, burping, and other flatulent sounds and actions are generally considered more acceptable in Hong Kong than in some Western cultures. This is often attributed to the cultural emphasis on authenticity and naturalness. For example, burping at the table may be seen as a sign of honesty, appreciation and comfort rather than a rude or disrespectful act. These actions should still be avoided in certain formal or professional settings. However, they are generally tolerated, especially in casual social situations.
• In Hong Kong, it is common to get the attention of service staff with a large wave and a brief yell. While this behaviour might seem demanding to foreigners, it is considered a polite and acceptable way to beckon someone or draw their attention.

Visiting

• It is best practice to contact your host in advance to let them know you're coming—even if they invited you.
• Bring a small edible gift (e.g. tea, sweets, fruit) to offer the host.
• Help to pour drinks for others whenever you see that their glasses need a refill. Thanks are sometimes given for courtesy by tapping two fingers on the table.

Eating

• It is polite to serve others before serving yourself and offer the best portion of food to the person beside you.
• Try to taste everything served as a gesture of appreciation to the cook.
• Do not eat the last of anything left on a serving tray.
• Hold the rice bowl close to your mouth as you feed yourself.
• Avoid talking a lot while eating.
• Eating a lot of rice without complementary component foods indicates that you do not like the meal.
• If you want a second serving, refuse the host’s offer once before accepting it.
• If you are hosting a meal, always overestimate the amount of food you anticipate people to eat so you do not run out.
• Some Hong Kongers may wish to take pictures of their meal on their phone before eating. This is not considered rude.

Gift Giving

• Gifts can signify gratitude, appreciation, gratuities or requests for favours. When choosing a gift, keep in mind whether you are looking to offer it as a professional or personal gesture.
• Pass gifts to the recipient with both hands.
• Do not open gifts immediately. It is customary to wait until the giver has left. This practice helps preserve face for both the giver and the receiver in case the recipient is disappointed with the gift.
• Careful attention is given to the wrapping of gifts in Hong Kong, as first impressions are crucial. More elaborate wrapping is preferred, and colours carry specific meanings. For example, red and gold wrapping symbolizes luck, while blue or black wrapping is associated with negative connotations.
• A Hong Kongese person may decline receiving a gift two or three times out of politeness before accepting, but be careful not to push against genuine refusals as the person may feel that they cannot repay the favour. Giving gifts that are impossible to reciprocate or match in a returned favour can cause the recipient to lose face.
• Sweets, fruits, flowers (excluding red or white flowers) and alcoholic spirits make good gifts.
• Do not give gifts that add up to 4 in number as 'four' pronounced in Cantonese sounds like the word for ‘death’.
• Taboo items for gifts include sharp objects (e.g. knives, scissors), clocks, handkerchiefs, umbrellas, green hats, mirrors and yellow or white flowers.

See Other Considerations for more information on taboo numbers and colours.