Asia is home to a wide range of cultures, traditions, and customs, and understanding local etiquette can make your travel experience smoother and more respectful. Whether you’re exploring the bustling cities of Japan, the temples of Thailand, or the markets of India, being mindful of cultural norms will not only help you avoid any accidental faux pas but also deepen your connection with the local communities.
To help you navigate the diverse cultural landscape of Asia in 2025, here are 10 cultural etiquette tips you should know before traveling to Asia.
1. Respect for Elders is Paramount
In many Asian cultures, showing respect for elders is deeply ingrained in society. Whether you’re in Japan, China, or India, older individuals are treated with a high level of reverence.
What to do:
- Address older people with titles such as “Auntie” or “Uncle” (in countries like China and Vietnam), or more formal titles like “Sir” or “Madam.”
- In countries like Japan, you should bow slightly as a sign of respect, especially when greeting elders or showing appreciation.
- If you’re at a gathering or meal, wait for the eldest person to begin eating or speaking before you do.
Pro Tip:
- Offering your seat to an elderly person in public places like trains or buses is a polite gesture that is always appreciated.
2. Shoes Off Indoors
In many Asian countries, it’s customary to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home, a temple, or certain businesses, especially in Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
What to do:
- Always look for a place to leave your shoes at the entrance, such as a designated rack or area.
- Be sure to wear clean, presentable socks, as your bare feet might be exposed when removing your shoes.
- In temples and homes, you may be asked to wear slippers or special footwear, so be sure to follow the local custom.
Pro Tip:
- It’s a good idea to keep a pair of simple socks in your bag to avoid any awkward moments if you’re not prepared.
3. Use Both Hands When Giving or Receiving
In countries like Japan, Thailand, and South Korea, using both hands when giving or receiving something, particularly gifts or money, is seen as a gesture of respect.
What to do:
- When handing someone a gift, document, or even money, use both hands. If the item is small, you can also support it with one hand and hold it with the other.
- In China, you may also see people bowing slightly when offering something, showing additional respect.
Pro Tip:
- This is especially important in more formal situations, but it’s a good habit to practice in everyday interactions as well.
4. Be Mindful of Personal Space
While personal space norms vary around the world, Asia tends to have a different approach. In countries like India, China, and Indonesia, the concept of personal space may not be as emphasized as it is in the West.
What to do:
- In crowded places like markets or public transport, don’t be surprised if people stand closer than what you’re used to.
- However, when interacting with people one-on-one, be mindful not to stand too close unless you’re familiar with them.
- In countries like Japan, people tend to avoid physical contact, such as handshakes, and prefer bowing or nodding when greeting someone.
Pro Tip:
- Always observe the local customs and follow cues from the people around you when it comes to personal space.
5. Dress Modestly, Especially in Temples
In many parts of Asia, dressing modestly is important, particularly when visiting religious sites such as temples and shrines.
What to do:
- In Thailand, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka, it’s essential to cover your shoulders and knees before entering a temple. You may be asked to rent or buy a cover-up if you’re not dressed appropriately.
- In India, women should be mindful of wearing traditional clothing, such as long skirts or pants and tops with sleeves, when visiting temples or sacred sites.
- In Japan, while casual clothing is generally accepted, avoid wearing anything too revealing, especially in formal or religious settings.
Pro Tip:
- Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders and arms when entering temples, which can often be a requirement.
6. Avoid Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection (PDA) are generally frowned upon in many parts of Asia, especially in more conservative countries like India, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
What to do:
- Refrain from holding hands, kissing, or hugging in public, especially in rural areas or religious sites.
- In some places, a simple nod or handshake (with people of the same gender) may be the most appropriate form of greeting.
Pro Tip:
- In some cultures, even handshakes can be avoided between men and women, so observe the local customs and take cues from others around you.
7. Do Not Point
Pointing at people or things is considered rude in many Asian cultures, especially in China, Japan, and Thailand. Pointing directly at someone’s face, in particular, is seen as disrespectful.
What to do:
- Instead of pointing, use your entire hand to gesture toward something or someone.
- In Thailand, use your whole hand with the palm facing downwards to point at people or things.
- In Japan, it’s more polite to gesture subtly toward an object or person, using your hand at waist level.
Pro Tip:
- When giving directions, try to use gestures like sweeping your hand across the air, or you can point with your thumb, which is more acceptable in some places.
8. Don’t Tip Too Generously
While tipping is common in many Western countries, it’s not a universal practice in Asia. In some countries, tipping is either discouraged or unnecessary, while in others, it’s expected.
What to do:
- In Japan and South Korea, tipping is not a common practice, and may even be considered impolite.
- In China and Vietnam, tipping is generally not expected, though in more tourist-heavy areas, small tips (such as rounding up the bill) are sometimes appreciated.
- In countries like Thailand and India, tipping is customary but usually in small amounts.
Pro Tip:
- Always check the local customs regarding tipping before your trip. In places where tipping is not common, avoid leaving large amounts or expect the staff to politely refuse.
9. Silence is Golden in Certain Cultures
In countries like Japan and China, silence is often preferred in public spaces such as public transport and even in some social settings. People typically refrain from talking loudly or making unnecessary noise.
What to do:
- Be mindful of your volume when speaking, especially in public places like subways, temples, or museums.
- In Japan, speaking on the phone in public is considered rude. If you need to make a call, step outside or to a designated area.
Pro Tip:
- If you’re in a group, keep conversation levels low and respectful, especially in serene environments like temples or shrines.
10. The Importance of the Head and Feet
In many Asian cultures, the head and feet are considered important body parts, and there are specific rules about both.
What to do:
- In Thailand and Cambodia, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, and it’s considered disrespectful to touch someone’s head, even in a friendly manner.
- On the other hand, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body. In countries like India, Thailand, and China, you should avoid pointing your feet at people or objects of respect, and never use your feet to touch things or people.
- In Indonesia and India, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a sacred site.
Pro Tip:
- If sitting cross-legged, avoid letting your feet face directly at someone else, especially elders or religious figures.
Conclusion
Asia is an incredibly diverse continent, and its rich cultural traditions and customs can make a visit even more enriching. By following these 10 cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate the complexities of different cultures with respect and confidence, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Have you ever encountered any cultural surprises while traveling in Asia? Share your experiences in the comments below!
