Welcome! This guide is designed to help you navigate China comfortably, safely, and respectfully, whether for business or trade visits. By sharing your preferences in advance, we can tailor meals, accommodations, and services to your needs.
Before your trip:
Share dietary restrictions, allergies, and personal dislikes
Communicate accommodation preferences (smoke-free rooms, pillow types, prayer direction, etc.)
Prepare for climate differences: summer is hot, winter varies by region
Understand dining etiquette and business customs
Key Tools: Google Translate, Baidu/AutoNavi Maps, or similar apps.
Please inform us in advance about:
Dietary restrictions: Halal, vegetarian, vegan, kosher, Hindu diet
Food allergies: Peanuts, shellfish, gluten, dairy, etc.
Personal dislikes: Spicy, lamb, etc.
Accommodation needs: Smoke-free, pillow type, prayer direction, etc.
Your early communication allows us to coordinate restaurants, special meals, and hotel requests. All information is confidential.
| Diet | Restrictions | Challenges in China | Our Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Halal | No pork, alcohol, non-Halal meat | Pork commonly used, cross-contamination in woks, sauces may contain non-halal ingredients | We guide you to certified halal restaurants. Note: Chinese halal cuisine is local-style, respecting halal rules. |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Vegetarian: no meat, may include dairy/eggs; Vegan: no animal products | Broths often use chicken/pork bones; oils may contain lard; misleading dish names | Prefer vegetarian/vegan restaurants. At regular restaurants, specify: “Use plant oil only, no meat broth or animal fat.” |
| Hindu | No beef, often vegetarian | Beef common in Chinese dishes; sauces may contain beef powder | Emphasize “no beef.” Vegetarian or chicken/lamb dishes in northwest-style restaurants recommended. |
| Kosher | Strict Kosher compliance | Very few Kosher-certified restaurants in China | Bring your own food or contact us for options in major cities. |
Inform us in advance; we provide allergy cards for chefs to ensure safety.
| Region | Taste Profile | Signature Dishes | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| North | Salty, strong flavors | Beijing Zhajiang noodles, dumplings, Peking duck | Ask for “less oil, less salt” if preferred. |
| South | Light, fresh, slightly sweet | Cantonese dim sum, steamed fish | Allergic to seafood? Alert staff about “freshening seafood” in sauces. |
| Southwest | Spicy, numbing | Sichuan hotpot, Mapo tofu | Avoid spicy: clarify “no chili” as “mild” can still be hot. |
| East | Balanced, original flavor | Shanghai xiaolongbao, West Lake fish | Generally safe for first-time diners. |
Business meals are a key part of building trust in China.
Seating: Follow host’s arrangement; main guest sits on host’s right.
Toasting: Host goes first; respond politely or substitute tea if not drinking alcohol.
Ordering: Host chooses dishes; show appreciation for their efforts.
Smoking: In some regions or occasions, offering cigarettes is a social gesture. Politely decline with “Thank you, I don’t smoke”—it’s acceptable.
Tip: The main goal is relationship-building, not pressure to drink or smoke.
Special requests: Share needs like smoke-free rooms, pillow types, or prayer direction.
Location: Choose hotels near international districts, universities, or city centers for more dining options.
Concierge service: High-end hotel concierges can help book suitable restaurants.
| Region | Summer | Winter | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast/Northwest | Cool/dry to hot/dry | Extremely cold | Layered clothing; winter coat, gloves, waterproof shoes. |
| North/East | Hot & humid | Cold & dry | Summer: breathable business casual; winter: warm coat. |
| South | Hot & humid | Mild | Summer: light clothing & umbrella; winter: jacket or sweater. |
| Southwest | Hot basin / cool plateau | Cold basin / warm plateau | Check city-specific weather; bring sun or moisture protection. |
Use weather apps and layer clothes for indoor/outdoor temperature changes.
Toilets: Hotels/airports have sit-down toilets; many public places still have squat toilets.
Tip: Use your hotel bathroom before leaving; carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
Bidet: Rare in China; portable wash bottles recommended if you prefer water cleaning.
Apps: Google Translate for menus and conversations, Baidu/AutoNavi Maps for finding restaurants.
Communication: Staff are usually helpful; our team will assist in any language barrier situation.
We aim to be your most reliable partner in China. Beyond business support, we ensure your dietary needs, religious practices, and personal comfort are respected. Please share your preferences in advance to make your trip smooth, safe, and enjoyable.
