What You Can and Can't Do in China

Can Do:

1. Travel and Explore China is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. Tourists are encouraged to visit these sites and explore the country's natural beauty, from the mountains of Tibet to the beaches of Hainan.

2. Use Mobile Payments China is a global leader in mobile payment technology. Apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, even for small transactions. Visitors can link these apps to their foreign bank accounts, making it easy to pay for goods and services.

3. Eat Street Food Chinese street food is famous for its variety and flavor. In cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, you can find delicious snacks like dumplings, skewers, and pancakes on almost every corner. It's safe to try, and often the food is prepared fresh right in front of you.

4. Respect Local Customs and Traditions Chinese culture is steeped in traditions that are still observed today. For example, it is customary to greet elders first, use both hands when giving or receiving something, and remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Understanding and respecting these customs will go a long way in building good relationships.

5. Participate in Festivals China has a rich calendar of festivals, from the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) to the Mid-Autumn Festival. These events are colorful, filled with tradition, and offer a great opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand.

6. Study and Work China offers numerous opportunities for foreign students and professionals. Universities in cities like Beijing and Shanghai welcome international students, while multinational companies operate across the country, providing jobs for skilled workers.

Can't Do:

1. Criticize the Government Criticizing the Chinese government or its policies can lead to serious consequences. This includes online activities, where social media platforms and messaging apps are monitored. Topics like the Tiananmen Square incident, Hong Kong protests, and Taiwan's independence are particularly sensitive.

2. Access Restricted Websites China has strict internet censorship, known as the Great Firewall. Many popular Western websites, such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, are blocked. To access these, you would need to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), though the legality of VPNs is also a gray area in China.

3. Engage in Public Protests Public protests and demonstrations are not permitted in China without government approval. Unauthorized gatherings can be quickly dispersed by the police, and participants may face legal repercussions.

4. Practice Religion Openly While China officially recognizes five religions (Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism, and Protestantism), practicing religion outside of state-approved institutions can be risky. Unregistered churches, underground mosques, and other religious gatherings are often monitored or shut down.

5. Bring or Use Drugs China has some of the strictest drug laws in the world. Possession, trafficking, or use of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties, including the death penalty for serious offenses. Even small amounts of drugs can lead to long prison sentences.

6. Spread Misinformation The Chinese government takes the spread of misinformation very seriously. Spreading rumors or false information online or in public can lead to arrest and imprisonment. This includes misinformation about public health, politics, or any other sensitive topics.

Navigating the Gray Areas:

In addition to clear rules about what you can and can't do, there are some areas that are less black and white. For instance, while VPNs are commonly used by both locals and expats to access blocked websites, their legality is not clear-cut. Similarly, tipping in restaurants is not customary in China, but it's becoming more common in tourist areas.

Conclusion:

Understanding what you can and can't do in China is crucial for anyone living in or visiting the country. While the rules may seem strict, they are designed to maintain social harmony and protect the interests of the state. By respecting these rules and embracing local customs, you can have a rewarding and enjoyable experience in China.