8 things travelers will never understand about China

Isabella Chase by Isabella Chase | May 12, 2025, 7:35 am

China, an enigmatic land of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, stumps even the most seasoned travelers. There’s a world of things that can leave outsiders scratching their heads.

From the moment you step off the plane, you find yourself immersed in customs and quirks that seem to defy common understanding.

In this article, I’ll be sharing eight things that travelers, despite all their experiences, will never quite understand about China. Hold on tight, we’re about to dive into a world that’s as fascinating as it is baffling!

1) The Great Firewall

China is home to one of the most sophisticated internet censorship systems in the world. Fondly referred to as the “Great Firewall,” it can leave even the most tech-savvy travelers flummoxed.

Imagine stepping off the plane, switching on your phone, and finding that your usual digital world is out of bounds. No Google, no Facebook, no Instagram – many of our everyday platforms are inaccessible.

Many travelers turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass the Firewall, but even these can be hit or miss. It’s a digital landscape that’s as intriguing as it is frustrating.

This is a reality that travelers struggle to understand about China. Why such a strict digital lockdown? It’s part of China’s complex relationship with information control and sovereignty.

But remember, when in Rome (or in this case, Beijing), do as the locals do – use WeChat! This super-app does everything from messaging to booking taxis, making payments, and more. It’s a glimpse into China’s unique digital ecosystem that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

2) The concept of “saving face”

During my travels in China, I quickly realized the importance of the cultural concept known as “saving face”. It’s a deeply ingrained part of Chinese society, and it can be quite bewildering for outsiders.

One afternoon, I was invited to a traditional Chinese dinner with friends. The food was plentiful, and I was encouraged to eat more and more. I happily obliged until I was completely full. However, my host kept insisting that I continue eating.

In my naivety, I politely declined, mentioning that I was too full to eat another bite. The room instantly went quiet. Everyone looked uncomfortable, and my host seemed somewhat offended.

Later, a Chinese friend explained to me that by not agreeing to eat more, I had inadvertently caused my host to “lose face”. It seemed they felt embarrassed for not providing enough food or seeming ungenerous.

This experience taught me how nuanced and essential the concept of “face” is in China. It’s something that travelers might struggle to fully comprehend or navigate, but understanding its importance can help you avoid any awkward cultural faux pas!

3) The preference for hot water

In the West, we’re used to chugging down ice-cold water, especially during the summer months. However, in China, the preference is quite the opposite.

Regardless of the season, you’ll often be served hot or at least warm water. This isn’t just a cultural quirk; it’s based on traditional Chinese medicine. The belief is that drinking cold water can disrupt the balance of your body, potentially leading to health issues.

Even when it’s sweltering outside, don’t be surprised if you’re handed a steaming cup of water. It’s one of those peculiarities that travelers often find baffling about China. But once you get used to it, you might find yourself reaching for a hot drink more often than not!

4) The art of queuing

For those of us who pride ourselves on orderly queues and respecting personal space, China can be a bit of a culture shock.

The concept of forming a neat, single-file line seems to be more of a suggestion than a rule in many parts of China. Whether it’s at the train station, the supermarket checkout, or the bus stop, you’ll often find people jostling and nudging their way to the front.

This isn’t done out of rudeness or impatience. It’s simply part of the local culture and something that’s considered normal. As a traveler, it can take some getting used to. But once you’ve mastered the art of ‘aggressive’ queuing, you’ll feel like a true local!

5) The importance of family

In China, the family holds a place of utmost significance. It’s a deep-rooted value that is often hard to grasp for travelers from more individualistic cultures.

The concept of filial piety, a virtue of respect for one’s parents and ancestors, is a guiding principle in Chinese society. Traditionally, multiple generations live under one roof, and children often prioritize the needs of their parents above their own.

This profound sense of responsibility and devotion to the family can be quite moving. As a traveler, you might find yourself touched by the warmth and unity that pervades Chinese homes. It serves as a beautiful reminder of the universal values that bring us together, despite our cultural differences.

6) The language barrier

Embarking on my journey to China, I was armed with a few basic Mandarin phrases. Little did I know, the language barrier would prove to be a more significant hurdle than I had anticipated.

From ordering food to asking for directions, even the simplest tasks became an adventure. I’d find myself gesturing wildly, trying to convey my needs through a game of charades more often than not.

One time, I ended up with a spicy dish that set my mouth on fire because I mistook the word for ‘mild’ with ‘spicy’. Despite these missteps, these instances led to unexpected friendships, laughter, and memories that I still cherish.

Navigating through the linguistic maze of Mandarin is a challenge that can be both frustrating and rewarding. It’s an essential part of the China travel experience that leaves you with unforgettable stories to tell.

7) The sheer scale of everything

China’s vastness is something that can be hard for travelers to truly comprehend. The country is not only geographically immense but also teeming with a staggering population.

Cities like Beijing and Shanghai are sprawling metropolises, dwarfing most other cities worldwide. Skyscrapers stretch towards the sky, public transportation networks are vast and intricate, and the hustle and bustle of life is constant and overwhelming.

Whether it’s the grandeur of the Great Wall snaking across mountains or the sea of faces in a crowded market, the sheer scale of everything in China can leave you awe-struck. It’s an element of traveling in this country that never ceases to amaze and confound.

8) The speed of change

Perhaps the most baffling aspect for travelers is the rapid pace at which China evolves. The country is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, with changes happening at lightning speed.

Buildings that were there a year ago might be replaced with new skyscrapers. Technology advances at an unprecedented rate, with innovative trends like mobile payments becoming the norm seemingly overnight.

Adapting to this constant evolution is part of the thrill and challenge of understanding China. It’s a reminder that this dynamic country will always have new surprises waiting for you, no matter how many times you visit.

Embracing the enigma

The nuances and peculiarities of China are a testament to its rich cultural tapestry and centuries-old traditions. The nation’s unique rhythm, its intricate social fabric, and the rapid pace of change can indeed be baffling for travelers.

Yet, it’s precisely these elements that make the China experience so captivating. Each bewildering custom or unexpected quirk is an invitation to delve deeper, to understand more, to engage with the unfamiliar.

Traveling in China is like unraveling an endless puzzle that’s as fascinating as it is challenging. And perhaps, that’s the very essence of travel – stepping into the unknown, adapting to new norms, and uncovering the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Navigating through China might leave you with more questions than answers. But remember – every question is a stepping stone towards understanding a culture that spans thousands of years and billions of lives. It’s a journey worth taking, and one that offers lessons to carry with you long after you’ve left its shores.