Taiwan is a country rich in culture, history, and customs. For travellers, ex-pats, or anyone interacting with Taiwanese people, understanding local etiquette is essential to showing respect and building meaningful relationships. As we share a professional or social acquaintance, it’s important to note that our relationship should be reflected in the level of formality and respect in this guide. Although many Taiwanese are understanding of foreigners and the occasional cultural misstep, being aware of the do’s and don’ts can greatly enhance your experience. This article will cover some essential aspects of Taiwanese etiquette in social settings, dining, communication, and more.
General Social Etiquette
Do Greet with a Smile and a Bow
In Taiwan, first impressions are important, and greetings are often warm and polite. While a handshake is common in business settings, a slight bow or nod, accompanied by a smile, is a respectful way to greet people, especially elders or in more formal situations. Remember that handshakes tend to be more gentle compared to Western practices. It’s best to follow the lead of your host or counterpart in how they greet you.
Don’t Point at People
Pointing directly at someone with your index finger can be considered rude. Instead, if you need to gesture toward someone, use your entire hand with the palm facing upward or nod in their direction. This subtle difference in body language is important in maintaining a polite and respectful demeanour.
Do Take Off Your Shoes Indoors
It is customary in Taiwan to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. You will often be offered slippers to wear indoors. This practice maintains cleanliness and shows respect for the host’s household. Always be mindful of this tradition when visiting a local’s home.
Don’t Show Public Displays of Affection
While Taiwan is a relatively modern society, public displays of affection (PDA), like kissing or hugging in public, are not typical and may be considered inappropriate in certain settings. Hand-holding between couples is more accepted, but avoiding overt physical affection is advisable, especially in conservative areas or around older generations.
Do Respect Elders
In Taiwanese culture, elders are highly regarded, and respecting them is not just a social norm, but a deeply ingrained value. When speaking with someone older, use polite language and offer them deference. In group settings, elders are often served food or drinks first, and their opinions may be given more weight during discussions. When offering or receiving something, such as a gift or a business card, use both hands as a sign of respect.
Dining Etiquette
Do Wait Before Starting to Eat
When dining in Taiwan, particularly in formal or family settings, it is customary to wait for the host or the eldest person at the table to start eating before you do. This shows respect for the host and appreciation for the meal that has been prepared. If dining in a business context, wait for cues from your colleagues or clients before beginning your meal.
Don’t Stick Your Chopsticks Upright in a Bowl
One of Taiwanese culture’s most important dining taboos is sticking your chopsticks upright in a rice bowl. This resembles incense sticks used in funeral rites and is considered inauspicious. Instead, place your chopsticks neatly on the chopstick rest or lay them across the top of the bowl when not in use.
Do Share Dishes Family-Style
Meals in Taiwan are often served family-style, with multiple dishes placed in the centre of the table for everyone to share. It’s polite to serve yourself small portions of each dish and leave enough for others. If you’re dining with locals, allow them to take food before serving yourself. Use the serving utensils provided instead of your chopsticks to avoid contamination when using shared dishes.
Don’t Finish Everything on Your Plate
Unlike in some cultures where finishing your plate is a sign of appreciation, in Taiwan, leaving a small amount of food on your plate signals that you’re satisfied and that your host has provided more than enough. Finishing everything may imply that you’re still hungry and that more food should be served.
Do Express Gratitude for the Meal
It’s customary to thank the host at the end of the meal. A simple phrase like “謝謝” (xiè xiè, thank you) shows your appreciation. Complimenting the food and hospitality will always be appreciated. If you’re in a business setting, offering to reciprocate with a future meal can help strengthen the relationship.
Communication Etiquette
Do Be Modest in Conversations
In Taiwanese culture, modesty is not just a social norm but a deeply rooted value. Boasting about your achievements or wealth may come across as arrogant. It’s polite to downplay your success when complimented rather than accepting it outright. Humility is often seen as a virtue, and being gracious in conversation can leave a positive impression.
Don’t Engage in Loud or Aggressive Conversations
Taiwanese people generally tend to communicate softly and politely, avoiding confrontation. Raising your voice, arguing loudly, or engaging in confrontational discussions is considered impolite and may make others uncomfortable. Maintaining a calm and respectful tone, even in disagreements, is crucial for preserving harmony in conversations.
Do Use Polite Forms of Address
Using titles or surnames when addressing people is not just a formality but a sign of respect deeply embedded in Taiwanese culture. For example, addressing someone as “Mr. Chen” or “Ms. Li” is appropriate unless invited to use their first name. In formal settings, addressing people with their professional titles (e.g., Director Wang) is common. If you’re unsure, err on formality, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Don’t Discuss Controversial Topics
Certain topics, such as politics, independence, and relations with mainland China, can be sensitive for many Taiwanese people. It’s best to avoid these discussions unless you know the person well and understand their perspective. When engaging in casual conversations, stick to neutral or positive subjects like food, travel, or shared interests. For instance, you can discuss the delicious local cuisine, the beautiful landscapes of Taiwan, or your mutual love for a particular hobby.
Gift-Giving Etiquette
Do Bring a Small Gift for Your Host
When visiting someone’s home, especially for the first time, it’s customary to bring a small gift as a gesture of appreciation. Popular gifts include fruit, pastries, or items from your home country. Be sure to present the gift with both hands, as this shows respect. Gifts are often not opened before the giver, so don’t be offended if your host sets it aside during your visit.
Don’t Give Gifts in Sets of Four
In Taiwanese culture, the number four (四, sì) is associated with death due to its similar pronunciation. Therefore, avoid giving gifts in sets of four or anything that contains the number. Additionally, gifts like clocks, scissors, and sharp objects are considered unlucky as they symbolize cutting ties or the passage of time. Instead, opt for items that carry positive connotations, such as food or tea.
Do Give Red Envelopes for Special Occasions
Red envelopes, known as “紅包” (hóng bāo), are commonly given during special occasions like weddings, Lunar New Year, or birthdays. They contain money and are seen as a way to wish good luck and prosperity. When giving a red envelope, make sure to use new bills and avoid amounts containing the number four. Even numbers are generally preferred, with amounts ending in eight being especially lucky.
Business Etiquette
Do Exchange Business Cards with Both Hands
In Taiwan, business card exchange is a key part of business etiquette. When presenting or receiving a business card, always use both hands and take a moment to look at the card before putting it away. Placing the card directly into your wallet or pocket without a glance may be seen as disrespectful. Carrying a small cardholder can help you keep cards neat and accessible.
Don’t Be Late for Meetings
Punctuality is highly valued in Taiwanese business culture. Arriving on time shows respect for the other party’s time and commitment. If you anticipate being late, inform your contact in advance with an explanation. Being late without notice can harm your professional reputation and is often viewed negatively.
Do Build Relationships Before Discussing Business
In Taiwan, business relationships are often built on personal connections and trust. Don’t rush into business discussions during initial meetings. Instead, focus on getting to know your counterparts, sharing meals, and engaging in light conversation. Once a relationship is established, business negotiations can proceed more smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Taiwanese etiquette can go a long way in building solid relationships and showing respect for local customs. While people in Taiwan generally understand cultural differences, adhering to these do’s and don’ts will enhance your experience, whether you’re visiting for a short time or planning to live there long-term. Whether greeting people with a smile, handling chopsticks correctly, or respecting business protocols, practising good etiquette can help you connect with Taiwan’s warm and welcoming people on a deeper level.