Culture, Customs and Etiquette in Hong Kong: A Traveller's Guide

A meeting of cultures

Hong Kong blends Cantonese tradition with a British colonial legacy, so etiquette here feels both East and West. People are fast-moving, direct and pragmatic, yet they value courtesy, face (saving dignity) and good manners. A little awareness goes a long way.

Greetings and introductions

• A light handshake is standard. With older or senior people, a small nod shows respect.
• English works in most business and tourist settings; a simple nei hou (hello) in Cantonese is warmly received.
• Exchange business cards with both hands and a slight bow. Receive a card the same way, read it, and never shove it straight into your back pocket.
• Address people by title and surname (Mr Chan, Dr Wong) until invited to do otherwise.

Dining etiquette

Food is central to Hong Kong life, from dim sum to dai pai dong street stalls.

• When someone pours your tea, tap two fingers on the table to say thank you.
• At yum cha, the host usually orders for the table and food is shared. Try a bit of everything.
• Never stick chopsticks upright in a rice bowl; it resembles incense for the dead. Rest them on the holder.
• Let elders start eating first. The host often offers the best pieces to guests.
• Slurping noodles is fine; blowing your nose at the table is not.

Tipping norms

• Restaurants usually add a 10 percent service charge, so extra tipping is optional. Leaving the loose change or rounding up is common.
• Taxis: round up to the nearest dollar or two; drivers do not expect large tips.
• Hotels: HK$10 to HK$20 for porters is courteous.

Dos and donts

• Do stand on the right of MTR escalators so others can pass on the left.
• Do keep your Octopus card handy for transport and shops.
• Dont talk loudly on public transport; quiet is appreciated.
• Dont discuss sensitive politics with strangers.
• Dont point with one finger or beckon with your palm up; use an open hand.
• Do remove your shoes when entering a private home.

A few cultural notes

Numbers matter: 8 is lucky (prosperity), 4 sounds like death and is avoided. Red symbolises luck, while white is linked to funerals. During Lunar New Year, give and receive lai see (red packets) with both hands, and never give clocks or sharp objects as gifts.

Stay connected in Hong Kong

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so maps, translation apps and restaurant bookings just work, with no roaming bills.