Congratulations on coming to Chongqing! If it’s your first time trying our world-famous hotpot, don’t worry — it’s actually very easy and super rewarding once you know the basics. Follow these steps and you’ll enjoy an authentic experience like a local. 1. Finding a Good Hotpot Restaurant The easiest way is to open Meituan or […]
How to Eat Chongqing Hotpot Like a Local in 2026 Read More »
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is Chinese etiquette?”, you’re not alone. Many of my Western friends have asked me this exact question, often expecting a simple list of dos and don’ts. But from my perspective as a Chinese person, etiquette isn’t just about rigid rules — it’s about relationships, respect, and maintaining harmony in
Understanding Chinese Culture & Manner Read More »
I’ll be honest — before my first trip to China, I was equal parts excited and nervous. As someone from the West (think California, where I live now), I’d heard all the stories: the language barrier, the cashless society, the Great Firewall, and the sheer scale of everything. Would I get lost in translation? Could
My First Trip to China: What I Wish I Knew Before Going as a Westerner Read More »
If you’ve ever visited a Chinese restaurant or stayed with a Chinese host family, you might have noticed something peculiar: instead of the ice-cold water you’re used to in the West, they serve hot water—sometimes piping hot, often just warm. No ice, no chill. And if you politely ask for cold water, you might get
Why Do Chinese People Love Drinking Hot Water? Read More »