Local culture in Hong Kong

Expats' experiences of culture shock in Hong Kong may not be as dramatic as they would expect, especially if they’re from an English-speaking country. Hong Kong is a former colony of Britain, so the locals’ English proficiency is high. Moreover, the religious and cultural tolerance of those living here is quite high.

Hong Kong has a population of more than 7 million, so the sheer size of the population can be daunting, especially for those who relocate from small or medium-sized cities. Then, certain things in Hong Kong are just plain different, and even the most well-travelled expat will need some time to adjust. 

Language barrier in Hong Kong

Hong Kongers are usually Cantonese- and English-speaking, with some degree of fluency in Mandarin. This bilingual nature actually makes it rather difficult for expats to pick up any Cantonese; people will often insist on speaking English just because somebody looks like a foreigner. 

While most of the local population is fluent in English, some older generations may not be as fluent. In some areas, most of the local shops will be owned by the older generation, which may make transactions challenging. 

Cultural differences in Hong Kong

There are many unspoken rules in Hong Kong, and it helps to recognise that new arrivals must give themselves time to learn these things as they go. In particular, the way in which people manage personal space takes some getting used to. For example, Hong Kong locals may stand closer when in conversation than expats might expect. That said, they are generally reserved people, and this is not an invitation for bodily contact. 

Socialising in Hong Kong

When interacting with locals, expats in Hong Kong should be aware of the concept of 'face'. Face is an intangible quality that represents a person's dignity and reputation. One can save face, give face, or lose face.

Expats should never embarrass, insult or contradict someone in public, as this would cause them to lose face. Face can be given by complimenting and showing respect to locals sincerely.

Tea is an important part of life in Hong Kong, and expats will find it a constant at social gatherings big and small. An empty or partially empty teacup is sure to be refilled almost immediately, and when pouring their own tea, expats should fill up the cups of their fellow tea drinkers, too. 

Eating in Hong Kong

Food in Hong Kong is often served communally, with several dishes placed in the middle of the table. There are some rituals surrounding dining practices in Hong Kong, although expats will most likely encounter them only in very formal dining situations. Some general courtesies include letting the host be the first to begin eating and always leaving something behind on plates and platters. It is considered rude to take the last piece of food, which would imply that the host has underfed the guests.

All but the smallest of restaurants in Hong Kong should have knives and forks available as a substitute for chopsticks, but learning to use chopsticks properly is still a good idea while living in Hong Kong. 

Some basic chopstick etiquette:

• Diners should not fiddle with chopsticks.
• If you are not currently using the chopsticks, you should lay them down evenly on the chopstick holders provided. 
• Do not stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as in Chinese culture, this connotes inviting death to the table. 
• It is also impolite to point or gesture with chopsticks. 

Weather in Hong Kong

Many people find Hong Kong’s humidity unbearable. The city’s 'wet blanket' is most prominent in springtime, followed by summer's extreme heat. Many expats have trouble adapting to the stifling outdoor temperatures, and those who can cope with the rising mercury may have problems with the constant indoor air conditioning flow. All the malls and office buildings blast cool air, so it’s necessary to carry a cardigan everywhere, and those who wear glasses can be sure they will be wiping the fog off their lenses several times a day.