Hong Kong has gone through over 150 years of colonialism, making it like no other place on earth. Despite the strong Chinese and British influences on the island, it has a distinct identity. They are more inclined towards Eastern culture and do adhere to Chinese traditions, significance is given to eastern values like family solidarity, respect for elders, courtesy and saving face. Hong Kong has an extraordinary past which matches its extraordinary present. It is a unique experience shaped by a distinctive past and dreams of the future, an age-old synthesis of cultures and traditions that opens a window into what will be, while embracing what has passed. Tea Tasting and appreciation, Tai Chi, Chinese medicines, Cantonese Opera, Kung Fu, Feng Shui are all very much a part of the Hong Kong culture.
Family Values
The Chinese people emphasize the importance of family values. It is customary for families, whether large or small, to live together under the same roof to maintain close-knit ties. The Chinese prefer to live in their parents' homes, some even after marriage. Another reason that also contributes to this way of life is the excessive cost of housing in Hong Kong. Chinese businesspeople are often suspicious of strangers, and if possible, they prefer doing business with a next of kin or someone they are very familiar with. It is therefore not surprising that many of Hong Kong's most wealthy business empires are family-oriented and handed down the generation line. Respect should always be given where it is due, and in the Chinese culture, the older people are the ones who are richly paid. It is the duty of the children to take care of their parents once they are capable of it. You can hardly find an elderly being sent to the old folks' home. It is common for someone to address another by his or her levels in a family. For example, a man who is older is often called 'uncle', whereas one who is over 60 years of age is referred to as 'grandpa'. This also applies equally to the females.
Day to Day Values
Handshaking is the common form of greeting. In Hong Kong, the family name comes first, so Wong Man Ying would be addressed as Mr Wong. Most entertaining takes place in restaurants rather than in private homes. Normal courtesies should be observed when visiting someone's home. During a meal, a toast is often drunk saying Yum Sing at each course. There may be up to 12 courses served in a meal, and although it is not considered an insult to eat sparingly, a good appetite is always appreciated and it is considered cordial to taste every dish. It is customary to invite the host to a return dinner. Informal wear is acceptable. Some restaurants and social functions often warrant formal attire. The concept of face is very important for them. You may lose face, save face or give face (when you compliment someone).
Health Care Values
Counselling and/or mental health problems are not something people like to openly discuss. Medication for mental health is probably more acceptable than talking to a counsellor. Traditional Chinese medicine talks about how physical illness may affect people's temperament and personality. There is also emphasis on herbal tea to "calm frustration/irritation." Western medicine is usually viewed as a "good quick fix" solution with strong negative side effects on the body.
Here are some general cultural norms:
1. Gifting should never include red or white flowers, scissors, knives, clocks, handkerchiefs, and anything in odd numbers.
2. Gifts are always presented using both hands and are never opened when presented.
3. Wait to be told where to sit. Try out everything prepared by host. Burping is considered a compliment. When you have finished eating, place your chopsticks in the chopstick rest or on the table. Do not place your chopsticks across the top of your bowl.
4. The Chinese traditionally have 3 names: The surname, or family name is first and is followed by two personal names. The first personal name is their father's name and the second personal name is their own name.
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