Chinese tourist sparks debate over 6 ‘strange’ customs in Hong Kong
1:50PM Sun September 29, 2024
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29th September 2024 – (Hong Kong) A recent social media post by a mainland Chinese user on Xiaohongshu, has ignited a lively debate regarding the cultural differences observed by mainland visitors in Hong Kong. The user enumerated six peculiar phenomena that she identifies in the city, including a strong sense of personal space and direct communication styles, prompting reactions from both mainland and Hong Kong netizens.
The post highlights what the user describes as “strange” characteristics of Hong Kong life, such as the near-universal employment rate, where even elderly individuals are visible across various industries. She noted, “In Hong Kong, it seems everyone is employed, including the elderly,” underscoring the city’s unique labour landscape.
Another point raised was the heightened awareness of personal space among Hong Kong residents. The author remarked that it is uncommon for friends or relatives to visit without prior notice, indicating a cultural preference for boundaries in personal interactions.
The post also touched on the legality of identity checks by police, asserting that being stopped on the street for a random ID check is a normal occurrence. “Hong Kong law mandates that residents carry their ID cards at all times, and failing to do so can result in a fine,” she explained.
In discussing the entertainment industry, the user described being a celebrity in Hong Kong as a relatively ordinary profession, contrasting it with perceptions in mainland China. Furthermore, she noted that Hong Kong citizens tend to express dissatisfaction directly, rather than employing subtlety or indirect communication.
Lastly, she highlighted the city’s strict driving regulations, stating, “You cannot drive slowly in Hong Kong; you must adhere to speed limits to maintain the efficiency of road traffic.”
The post has sparked a mixed response online, with some users agreeing that certain behaviours in Hong Kong can be perplexing. Comments included, “I sometimes don’t understand,” and “Hong Kong people are straightforward; they say what they mean.” Others, however, countered that these observations are merely common practices rather than strange phenomena, asserting, “These are not strange; they are simply common sense.”
The author of the original post clarified that her comments were not intended to be derogatory but rather reflective of her perspective compared to mainland norms.
