The Importance of Donations and Charities

"入鄉隨俗" (rú xiāng suí sú) is a traditional Chinese saying that means "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." It emphasizes the importance of adapting to local customs and traditions when living or traveling in a new place.

In Chinese culture, this concept is deeply valued because of the emphasis on harmony, respect, and social etiquette. Here are some examples of how it applies:

✔ Chinese New Year (春节 Chūn Jié) – Even non-Chinese people living in China often give red envelopes (红包 hóngbāo), eat dumplings, and participate in dragon dances.
✔ Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节 Zhōngqiū Jié) – It’s common for people, even from other cultures, to enjoy mooncakes (月饼 yuèbǐng) and appreciate the full moon.

✔ Addressing Elders with Respect – In Chinese culture, it’s important to use proper titles like 叔叔 (shūshu, uncle), 阿姨 (āyí, auntie) instead of just calling someone by their name.
✔ Bowing or Nodding – While handshakes are common today, a respectful nod or slight bow is still a polite way to greet someone, especially elders.

✔ Using Chopsticks (筷子 kuàizi) – Foreigners in China often learn how to use chopsticks instead of asking for forks.
✔ Toasting with “干杯” (Gānbēi)! – In Chinese culture, when drinking alcohol (especially at banquets), it’s polite to toast and say “gānbēi” (cheers) before drinking.

✔ Gift-Giving in Business – When doing business in China, it’s customary to exchange small gifts as a sign of goodwill.
✔ Exchanging Business Cards Properly – When giving or receiving a business card, it should be done with both hands and a slight bow as a sign of respect.

✔ Wearing Red for Good Luck – Many foreigners in China wear red clothes during Chinese New Year to embrace the local beliefs of good fortune.
✔ Respecting Feng Shui (风水 Fēngshuǐ) – Some expats adjust their home décor to follow Feng Shui principles for good luck and balance.

"入乡随俗" is an important value in Chinese culture that encourages people to respect and follow the traditions of the place they are in. Whether it’s adopting Chinese customs in daily life, at work, or during celebrations, it helps build stronger relationships and cultural appreciation.

入鄉隨俗” (rú xiāng suí sú) means "When in Rome, do as the Romans do. in Chinese temple.

When visiting a Chinese temple (寺庙 sì miào), the principle of "入乡随俗" (rú xiāng suí sú)—"When in Rome, do as the Romans do"—is especially important. Temples are sacred places of worship, and following proper etiquette shows respect for local traditions and beliefs.

✔ Wear conservative clothing – Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or overly revealing outfits.
✔ Remove hats and sunglasses – As a sign of respect, uncover your head before entering.

✔ Step in with the right foot first – It is believed to bring good luck.
✔ Avoid stepping on the threshold – The raised threshold represents a sacred barrier; stepping on it is considered disrespectful.

✔ Bow or make a slight nod when entering as a gesture of respect.
✔ Use both hands when offering incense (香 xiāng) – Hold incense sticks with both hands while praying.
✔ Never point at deities – Use an open palm instead of a finger when gesturing.
✔ Do not turn your back to the altar after praying—step backward slightly before turning around.

✔ Light incense from an existing flame (not from a lighter or candle).
✔ Hold incense sticks upright and bow three times before placing them in the burner.
✔ Pray sincerely – Some temples have specific prayer sequences (e.g., starting with the main deity before moving to others).

✔ Keep noise levels low – Speak in a soft voice and avoid loud laughter.
✔ Walk clockwise when moving around the temple – It is a customary sign of respect.
✔ Avoid taking photos without permission – Some temples prohibit photography.

✔ Place donations gently into the donation box, not forcefully.
✔ If receiving a fortune stick (签 qiān), follow the proper ritual and seek interpretation from the temple master.

✔ Exit with the left foot first (opposite of entering).
✔ Express gratitude before leaving – A simple bow or clasping your hands together is a respectful way to say goodbye.

Following "入乡随俗" (rú xiāng suí sú) in a Chinese temple shows respect for culture, beliefs, and traditions. Whether you are visiting for spiritual reasons or out of curiosity, observing proper etiquette enhances your experience and helps you blend in with local customs.