The most populous country in the world, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), more commonly known as China, it was the place of one of the world’s earliest civilisations and has grown from there, having the second largest economy in the world and the largest exporter of goods and services. Moving to China is a huge decision, as any move across the world is, however there is so much to explore in this large country with over 1 billion people living within its borders.
Please note that this article offers recommendations. It does not constitute as legal advice. If you are planning to move to China, please seek professional legal assistance.
Chinese Culture
The Chinese culture and morals have been heavily influenced by Confucianism, a school of thinking that is known for revering social and family harmony. Elders, both within the family and in society, are taken care of, parents often living with their children after they are married and have a very hands-on role in taking care of and teaching their grandchildren. Traditional forms of Chinese dancing are still practiced today and are taught from early ages, however calligraphy and poetry were seen as being true forms of art, more viewed and popular than dancing and drama. In China today, this has changed. Despite this, calligraphy and poetry readings are still practiced in modern China, detailing its rich history within its words and brush strokes.
Different Flavours
China has such a diverse cuisine, with various spices and ingredients that make your tastebuds burst with flavour. The most influential cuisines are known as the “Eight Major Cuisines”, comprising of Cantonese, Sichuan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Fujian, Hunan, Anhui and Zhejiang cuisines. They’re differentiated by their various styles of preparation, such as heating, shape and flavours. The north China regions are known for their noodles and breads, the southern Chinese region for rice dishes. In the past, due to the dryness of the northern regions, meat was only reserved for special occasions and bean products like tofu were their source of protein. The south fared better with their milder climate and proximity to the oceans, so they were able to fish for their protein. Nowadays, pork makes up three-quarters of the meat consumption of the country and is distributed all over the country.
Chinese Manners
We grow up learning about what is polite and what is considered to be rude. When you move to China, it’s important to remember that their views on what is polite and what is not is different to what you’ve experienced. When you’re driving on the roads, it’s polite to give way to other drivers and let them into the lane when they indicate. However, this isn’t always the case on China’s motorways. It’s very common to ignore drivers who indicate their want to change lanes and you’re probably constantly worrying when contact could be made between two vehicles. If you’re expecting heating in restaurants during the winter, you might be disappointed. Many restaurants won’t have heating or cooling available so make sure you bundle up when it’s winter. Another thing to remember is to not act familiar with people in China. It’s alright if you’re good friends, however acquaintances and colleagues will think it’s very strange, and in some cases will be offended, if you give them a hug or kiss on the cheek out of the blue.
Prepare for your Move
Since you’ll be packing up your life and moving to another country, you will want to prepare carefully and know what exactly you’ll need to take and what you can leave behind. Most appliances you’ll be able to buy in China, as will clothes and shoes. Pack only a few essentials for your first month so that it’s one less thing to worry about. You’ll want to take a power adapter because China uses two types, A and I, so you could get either one in your new home. A power adapter will take you through your first few days before you can make a list of things you’ll need for your home that have the correct plug-in. If you’re travelling to China in the winter, make sure you take a warm coats and thermals, Chinese winters can, depending on the region you’re in, experience snow or really low temperatures so it’s best to be prepared for anything. Double and triple check official documents such as working visas or citizenship so that you don’t end up having to leave the country or being detained for having a problem with your documents.
Travel around the Country
You’re in the largest country in the world, it would be a shame if you didn’t get at least some travelling done while you’re in China. Beijing in the capital city of China and home to the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the Temple of Heaven. Most of the sites are world heritage sites and are hundreds and even thousands of years old, physical representations of China’s rich and extensive history. To the east is Huangshan, a mountain range that is one of China’s major tourist attractions and is known for its peculiar peak shapes and scenery. It has been the subject of many a painting and features heavily in literature and has even been cited by director James Cameron as an inspiration to his 2009 film Avatar. If you’re trying to find the classic Chinese countrysides, Guilin is the place for you. Known as being home to the most beautiful scenery in the world, it’s a haven to those who wish to relieve themselves from the hustle and bustle of city life. Take a boat ride along the Li River and see for yourself if it’s as picturesque and tranquil as the stories say.
There are so many things to consider before moving to China, however there are also things that are great about this amazing country. You will experience things that you never have before and interact with an entirely different culture. It is both exhilarating and terrifying, putting yourself in a completely unfamiliar place. It will certainly be the adventure of a lifetime. If you’re having trouble storing the things you want to keep for when you return or if friends want them, try Spacer. You can store your things long-term so if you are coming back home, the things will be somewhere secure until you need them again.
