I believe some people (probably Chinese) were somewhat offended by this video, but I didn't get a bad vibe from Mark, he didn't mean to criticize or to offend anybody at all... It's just the culture shock, nothing else. - This video was done for Americans (or people who have been brought up with mostly American culture and traditions) who are planning on visiting another country. I have also been reading some negative comments talking bad about the Chinese, and these are just ignorant people, that must be ignored. I appreciate the video because it was produced with good intentions, and was not meant to offend anyone, just to inform future travelers on what to expect when visiting... thanks and please keep posting from more destinations!
I am a Chinese. I agree most of he said. Ahah that’s my country. Welcome. I don’t feel uncomfortable. Because it’s reality, China is a developing country
Yes. I thin so too. In fact this man is just reading it off and saying things so nonchalantly, because he is already used to it, and I am over here still stuck in my American ways silently-or not so silently- freaking out. He’s meaning well and almost laughing it off how shocked his kids and other people were at the culture shocks. It’s not mean spirited at all. Plus it’s not is fault if someone is freaked out. He can’t control people’s reactions.
Also, I would like to see a reverse video. I’m sure the Chinese have a lot to say about American culture. Those from the U.S. might not agree with everything the Chinese have to say on that topic either. 🤷♀️
haha, I am Chinese and I confirm everything you say is so true. Love your videos. Let me add one more thing, the middle finger doesn't have any special meaning in China. It's just one of the five fingers. So don't be surprised if you see people showing you directions, pointing on paper, or especially on blackboards in front of a whole packed audience with their middle finger :)
***** Oh the irony. You're the one who called me a "tard" out of the blue. What do you want btw are you lonely or what, frustrated with life? fuck off, kid
No matter how much I tried to enjoy this..all I kept hearing is "smog...smog...bad air..smog..smog" I wish I was born 100 years ago so I could have seen this beautiful country in its prime.
donnk The only reason there was unrest was because of the influence of Japan, Mao Zedong didn't get involved until the 1920's so between 1900-1912 would have still been pretty great.
packerpf Disagree on that assumption. 1900-1912 China was still very divided and geographically split amongst petty leaders with the national government being led by the KMT, not a very good group.
***** You can disagree, it was my opinion that it still would have been pretty great. China was divided and they were trying to bring the country together, but the country overall was not in as bad of civil rest as the previous 200 years or the upcoming 50.
This video makes me really glad that I live in the US! As a substitute teacher I usually try to let kids go to the bathroom whenever they need to. I can’t imagine them doing it in the streets. They make enough messes as it is! I get enough culture shock by going to another state or city. I don’t need a whole new country.
I've never eaten dog in my whole life, same with the people I knew. Some people come to China and focus really hard to find a place (some tiny restaurants with very few customers) sells dog meat, and then they can say all Chinese eat dogs!!!
sagIa13 why u so focus on the remote area and rare cases？U can hold ur bias to Chinese and someday u can realize what really happening. Wearing bamboo.??.u r being ridiculous. If u haven't been to China, I really don't blame u. I'm trying to be polite. SHUT THE FUCK UP.
Jianing Cao Yo. 2 Chinese arrested in south korea, this month, for selling the medicines made up of human flesh.. China sold medicines to south korea that were made up of human baby flesh..
sagIa13 eat baby? WTF...in US there are real freak criminals which eat human meat!!!! If we don't know, how do you know??? I know everybody around me, you know what??
I'm American and I've eaten dog meat and cat meat and even horse meat. I don't understand what all the fuss is about regarding what kind of meat someone eats. Some people don't eat beef, but they don't seem to ridicule those who do. Dogs and cats are animals just like cows and chickens and pigs. Eat or don't eat... but eating cow meat or factory farmed chicken isn't somehow more moral or civilized than eating dog meat.
Dogs and cats are predators just like us humans and predators normally don't eat other predators. That's why I think eating dog and cat meat is wrong and disgusting I would never do it in a million years and I'm asian. It should be banned!
Best friend. Lol. Human made them that way. Not like the dogs choose to be our friends voluntarily. Maybe someday turkey could be Chinese people's best friend. Are you guys going to stop eating turkeys?
From someone who lives in China, I'd say this is a fair, factual, and helpful list for a newbie to China. Remember, newbies are his target audience. His most important point is to try to interact and get to know the Chinese people. If you do, you'll leave China loving it.
This is a very nice and informative video. As a Chinese-American, I don't see anything offensive here. There are few cultures in the world more different from the West than the East. The Chinese have an ancient culture, largely insulated till recent times. So there is interplay between the old and new, which would probably make this an interesting trip for most people. Yea, the hygiene and social manners sounds like it could use some updating. But for a society that has undergone exploitation, war, famine, immense poverty, cultural revolution all within living memory, the Chinese seem be a remarkable in tacked people. Its safe, it’s cheap and it’s a real experience for those adventurous enough to try something really different.
Great job Mark! I have been living and working in China since 1996 and will send this video to a few buddies before they arrive this summer. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work!
I feel bad for this video guy. He made a series of video in an attempt to educate people and yet racists had taken shelter here to twist his words and use it for their own vile purpose.
The thing is that it’s such a big country and people are really different from place to place. The things to see and views are also very different. I understand people all go to Beijing or xian and big cities when first travel in China... but not suggested. The people you see in Beijing are mainly from else where and they temporarily live there for better opportunities and money. What I mean is you can’t feel easy and relaxed-it’s crowded and overwhelming. For example, you can choose to go to Huang Shan(yellow mountain). You can spend one week on it if you wanna totally enjoy it. It’s shocking beautiful and natural and historical(you can see the poetry everywhere in the rocks and there were from ancient poets). Go to Suzhou and check out the Suzhou gardens, they are masterpieces. Go to Yunnan and check out the lochs and snow mountains. Go to Hainan province and rent a villa (modern decorated with garden, pool and I bet good price) with your own beach and drink huge fresh coconuts like water everyday. I can’t describe more places that are amazing but tourists don’t know. I know Beijing is famous for the Great Wall and forbidden city, but it’s a chaotic place that the local Beijing people never travel to Tian am men or any of the famous places.
Thank you for another good video mate. China is an amazing place for those who understand that it is an ancient civilisation with a rich history and a beautiful country and people. Keep up the good work!
The video is right and he is saying the truth,, thanks to him for exposing them, I live in China and I suffer daily , please keep this Chinese propaganda ( ancient civilisation with a rich history and a beautiful country and people) to yourself , China is full of shit and their government are doing nothing about it
I love going to China- The food culture, the Nature, History and people. China is the center of Asian culture. If you know where to go or have some friends It can be an amazing place. Just so you know China, Korea and Japan are all much more developed then Europe or USA. After coming back from China or Japan I always feel like Im back in 3rd worlds countries;/
1. Toilets - You'll see those holes only in public toilets. I personally hate sitting where thousands of others have already sat, so I prefer the holes. 2. Spitting - True, and disgusting!!! 3. Smog - You'd better bring masks. It's really terrible. 4. Eating dogs - In fact a lot of foreign tourists want to try it. 5. Queue - There is no such thing in China xD 6. People - I wouldn't be shocked. 7. Foreign kids - Not only with kids, young Chinese girls love to take pictures with foreign guys as well. 8. Traffic - Don't even try to figure out how to cross the streets alone. Just follow other people. In my words : Use them as your shield.. xD 9. Kids peepee weedee - It's alright, they are kids. Wait till you see adults do that.. 10. Friendly people - You are shocked because you think they are not supposed to be friendly? Anyway, even I was surprised last time when I traveled to China with two German friends. (I'm Chinese of course)
Mark, I love your enthusiasm for China. It's infectious. Makes me want to come there. What I really like about what you said is how friendly the people are. I would really love to live somewhere that is true. Sadly I live in the US and in most major cities it seems to be a matter of pride as to how rude people are. Do you live there or just visiting?
Squat toilets. Given the increasing Mac assisted size of Americans and Australians, if they have to squat many will not be getting up again without the assistance of an overhead crane.
+The Shadow Broker Oh , i'm a fat Chinese , 5'8'' (173cm )and 200 pounds , I'm telling you squatting is hell , especially with the big belly , you would feel like you can't breathe , I have sitting toilet at home but when I have to go in public , tips : face down , hand hang on to something if you can .
+Steve Soares 1. Modern medical research shows sitting toilet increase chance of getting cancer , squatting can be painful for some modern human , but remember our ancestors has been on that position for hundreds of thousands of years , so it is the most healthy position , it even avoid contact . 2.we are animals , so no , it shouldn't be an issue , yourself is the issue .
I live in China. It's fucking amazing here. It's got it's problems, just like everywhere else in the world. Most of these 'shock' differences are just cultural differences. So what if some restaurants serve dog? Some people eat horse, chicken, duck, cow, pig... whatever. A dog is no different no matter how stupid you are. Saying cow is fine but dog is not makes you a hypocrite. About the queuing up: No Chinese person gives a shit if someone cuts in front of them. If no one cares, then why is it a problem? That's just how it is. Just because you do it differently doesn't mean they are wrong. On the traffic issue: "they won't stop, they'll just hit you." Bullshit. I feel fairly safe crossing a chinese road. The drivers are so used to weaving in and out, dodging pedestrians, mopeds, bikes they will not hit you. It looks scary and crazy to us foreigners but once you're used to it, it's really not a problem.
We were there basically all summer and I could not find anything really helpful online before we left so I had lots of ideas for videos and once we got there I learned a lot. and I hope all these videos will help people visiting china so they can have a better, more fun, less "shocking" time :) all the best to you King!
I visited FIVE CITIES back in November, and in all of the places I've been in where I had to use the bathroom, every single place... I did not see even one single floor toilet. All the others are more or less spot on. I ate out every single night but never saw "dog" on the menu anywhere, although I did have an issue with some of the menu items in a place in one city. All in all, the experience was unforgettable and I'm moving there this July.
I think you could hardly find the dog meat in the dinner , unless you are going to some special cities whose custom involves eating dog. Actually we chinese don't eat dogs in daily life.
+Charlotte Langel I taught English there for five months and loved it. The people are fantastic. And - hey - that's why you travel - to experience something different from home and expand your world view. If you want everything to be just like home, forget about it, just stay home. Some of the things you'll experience will be so absurd, you'll be laughing and talking about it for years. Just embrace the differences. North Americans tend to think that the way they do things is the "right" way, but need to learn that there is a huge world out there, and many different ways to live. Enjoy and have fun!
+Charlotte Langel gold to hear that, i am Chinese , i live Hagnzhou , already here? if u come to Shang hai or Hangzhou, please tell me i d like to meet you,and guide for you ,free !lol! just wanna practice Eglish and make friends.may i have you Fb ?
+afonsords i spent over 4 months in China on 4 trips, i never saw anyone peeing or pooping on the street, dont beleive all the anti chinese crap you read, it does happen, but rarely, and mostly little toddlers peeing.
whutzat Because people keep saying the same retarded shit? You're stupid for not recognizing different cultures, besides, myself who actually knows a lot about China is aware that eating dogs is more of a south China culture things and is usually a delicacy that is consumed on special occasions, in north China not so much, in fact, the majority of Chinese people do NOT eat dog. Secondly the ''pooing on the street'' stuff is very uncommon, you could stay in China for a year and won't ever witness anything like that, you realize that China is in the middle of urbanization process right? Which means rural people migrate to cities, and these people are not accustomed to urban lifestyle, those are the ones who do this kind of thing. Thirdly, unlike here, it's a little more difficult to find public restrooms in China, little kids can't hold it. Have you heard of the same problems in San Francisco? People urinating all over the streets? LOL
Like many friends said. It is country in developing. People are changing, I'm pretty sure it will gets better. U can't use your standards to measure a nation will this amount of people. I also had serious problem with the traffic thing like Cars won't stop for u. To be honest i was angry at first time.But the thing is, They are changing. Do not compare this with HonKong, how many people live there. If Chinese's population is less 30% than now. I am 100% sure it's going to be lot easier for Chinese government tho. World is changing, so are they. Have faith, and peace out :d
I went to China in August 2013- solo traveler- can speak basic mandarin- My plan was to not plan anything too far ahead and just go where events take you. [I went to Beijing-Tianjin-Qingdao-Nanjing-Shanghai-Beijing]. I even stayed in hutongs in beijing and didnt have any problems living there. I found people to be very nice and helpful. I travel alot and just accept that things in every country are different- so I wouldnt say these things "shocked" me, but can I say that I had almost exactly the same observations as you make in your video of things that are very different in China- I just loved being in China and just facing life as it is lived in China. I will definitely be back.
Because there are not enough restrooms in China, unlike in US, restrooms are everywhere, they just can't find one near but the kids usually can't hold it for too long.
BeyondBreakevenTrading And you PROVE that you are a ignorant sanctimonious ass. Apparently you have not frequented the city of "pigs" known as San Francisco with their epidemic of people defecating on the streets. The split pants are a carryover from life in rural China where having to run in to change a kid every few hours when working in fields was NOT practical. But where relieving oneself outdoors in a field was inconsequential and actually a quite practical solution. This is changing with the Chinese becoming increasingly urban and especially with younger Chinese becoming upset when grandparents allow such behavior when they look after the small kids. There are plenty of private restrooms, but not all businesses have public restrooms. Malls and other larger establishments do have restrooms, and many businesses reserve the use of their restrooms for patrons. That said, there are public restrooms, although they may not be as common as you might be used to in the states.So a bit of anticipatory planning is prudent. And its normal to carry either small packets of tissues in your purse or pocket, or to carry some 'napkins' in your rear pocket like a handkerchief. Its easy and after about a week, it becomes normal.
+Mycenaea interesting question. back then i hated so much that the chinese people poo and pee everywhere, until my pastor told me the reason. back then, many chinese people work in the agricultural industry, and so this means that there is farmland everywhere. Kids play at the fields, and so it makes sense that they simply pee and soil on the soil, because our poo is a sort of fertilizer. of course, it's extremely disgusting and uncilivilize to pee on concrete streets in streets, but knowing a person's cultural background and stuff; we should show our understanding, respect and patience. the reason some of them do these very uncilivized things in other countries is becuase they don't know that is prohibited. so if necessary, just tell them genuinely and politely what is right to do and what is not right to do. if they don't listen, that's their choice, that they insist to be so uncivilized. however, i believethat most people are open to listen to others' suggestions. we should always respect other cultures, no matter how novel that could be to us
+Scintia Chao whats the difference when an American left its "stinkbombs" on a field, and Chinese left its? Chinese are gone in 1 day, US uran ammunition stays.
I live in Taiwan now, but I also loved when I was living in the mainland. A few more things... The pointing and staring, People not believeing that you are not rich, also on that note; your bike being stolen every few weeks (even if it had a lock on it). But the people for the most part are very friendly, and fun to be around.
I've lived in China for the past 6 years and find the people there very friendly and most of China to be very enjoyable. I've been to Beijing many times but never experienced any pollution problem that you hear about. I've visited many Cities from Beijing to Shangri-La at the foothills of Tibet and have found the people and the cities very worth the visit. Only rarely will you see what this man describes. I met my wife there and she is the sweetest young lady that a man could have for a wife. If you want a really interesting experience, you might try teaching English in China. I taught at the University and found the students and teachers very accommodating and interested in all aspects of American life and culture.
I went backpacking with my boyfriend this summer for a month, best trip of my life! I agree with most of what you said. Toilets were a bit scary to begin with, but once you get the knack of it, it's not so bad. I would recommend being strategic about when you go, if your in a hotel or anywhere that has a reasonable loo, take the opportunity, you'll regret it otherwise! Regarding queues, it's just another thing you'll adapt to if your around for longer than a week, after a while you won't even realise any more, it actually surprised me when I landed back in the UK and someone waited for me to leave the lift before bustling in. Both me and my boyfriend are very pale with blonde curly hair, so it did feel like we were some kind of novelty when people want pictures with you (at least once a day), once you get over the shock the first few times it just becomes a bit of fun. They almost always do it because they like the way you look and will compliment you, or are just interested, they may laugh but they're not laughing at you or being mean, and you'll just get used to it. With crossing the road in big cities, even after a few weeks, we usually just hung about until some Chinese went to cross, and just took their lead. If you plan on renting a bike (wouldn't recommend in the big cities) make sure you've been in China for some time and have a vague understanding of what kind of mentality road users have. It seems to be just as much about body language as it does about rules, much like queuing, if you show any sign of hesitation then you won't get very far. The people really just want to help you out, we were having some trouble at the train station in the first week, and a girl was really trying to help us, even though she could speak about as much English as we could Mandarin, she spent about 10 minutes of her time trying to help us. I would say always have a notepad and pen in your pocket, if you quickly need to communicate something you can draw it out or write down a time/date/platform number to show someone etc. Something that surprised me was counting on your hands is different, try and learn the hand signals for the numbers before you go, its much easier to understand someone who is visually showing how much something costs than getting flustered when they're telling you in Mandarin. I don't think any of these things are a reason to not go to China, it's an incredible experience, and just remember if you are really confused/disgusted/shocked by anything you see, once you get home and for years you'll think back and it will make you laugh, no matter how disturbing it was at the time!
I have been to China twice. I love it. There are toilet paper in all the restrooms I had been to. The food was delicious. China is a country of history of 5 thousand years. If you look for dirt, you will find it right in own back yard.
Fantastic video, man. Very enlightening. Not sure why, but I'm 42 and just now taking a serious interest in learning Mandarin. So, it's no surprise I'm curious about the mainland culture. Your #10 on the list is about the best thing I could hope for, though, and who knows -- maybe one day I'll get to visit there as well.
The spitting has nothing to do with the pollution, that's just a poor excuse trotted out. I've lived in China for more than 7 years, my English compatriot has been here for 10 years.. neither of us feel the need to spit. Even in the rural areas where the environment is clean - they still spit! Chinese people are incredibly friendly, I've never had any issues with them, however, in general they are NOT helpful - whenever anything unsavoury happens they will just stand around, watch or maybe film on their mobile phones but generally do nothing to help the situation.
The "not helpful" part is actually a more recent phenomenon, because more and more people are starting to fear false accusations. For instance, there have been stories (both confirmed and unconfirmed) of people falling over, someone rushing up to help them as good samaritans, and then being accused of causing the fall and subsequent "injuries." Then it's up to the good samaritan to prove his/her innocence in the face of a false accusation, which opens up a huge can of worms. That's why these days more and more people are being persuaded not to get involved and instead just leave it to the police or any first responders who happen to be nearby.
I've never been to China, but I can confirm the Chinese people love Western kids. When my daughter was a baby and we'd visit our favorite Chinese restaurant, all the female servers would stop working and take my baby from me. They'd all take turns holding and snuggling her and speaking Chinese to her. They were always very polite and friendly, and the restaurant was small, so I wasn't worried. They always sat at a nearby table near me. The female owner told me that none of the women had daughters because they had all been affected by the former one-child rule in China.
1. Very true 2. It gets disgusting where people do spit. They do it everywhere, and sometimes not in trash cans. 3. Yes, pollution can be very bad. In America you would think fog, here it is pollution. 4. Any type of meat can happen. Can be live as well, almost anything goes here. 5. Lines suck here for sure. People trying to skip all the time. 6. Coming from a small town in southwest Virginia, yes there are a lot of people. Rickshaws are awesome, and it is very safe. 7. I get asked almost everyday to take a picture. 8. Traffic sucks, and people do not follow the laws.... It gets crazy. My taxi the other day drove on the bike path to get around people to take me home. In China, green light means you can cross but cars still have the right a way. Stupid but true. 9. My first day I walked out of my place and saw a kid crapping in the street with a mom on the phone holding a broom and dustpan. I have seen kids peeing and pooping right in front of bathroom signs. You will see it happen. And I lived in Shanghai for a year so that is where I saw it. 10. Chinese people are friendly when it comes to not hurting what they want. They are the most selfish people I have met. I had 60+ year old ladies trying to shoulder charge me to get on the train to get one of the seats. If you are out and about, and ask a question, they will help. But when they are doing what they need, watch out.
I visited China with my daughter for 10 days, staying briefly in Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, and we experienced all the things that are mentioned in this video. We're from the US and found China exciting and enchanting. It was clean!!! Yes, they have air pollution - with this many people and that much industry - there's going to be, but the basic surroundings - even around construction sites were immaculate. No litter, no graffiti - you can't say that in any city in the US. The people are so industrious, helpful, kind, and welcoming - we would definitely come back for another visit and traveling as two women, we always felt safe.
It's unfortunate that when they come over to Canada, they bring those horrid customs and manners over with them. I like the deals and prices they have in Chinatown, but the employees are so rude and unhelpful. They don't seem to want to make any effort in assimilating and learning the language and customs here. And they also don't line up and just bud in when wanting to get at things. Smoking is a cool status to them and they do it while stocking produce outside the stores.
Honest question: what's wrong with eating dogs? A lot of people seem to have this stance that eating dogs is inherently wrong. Dogs are a common animal; pigs are also a common animal. How come it's okay to eat pigs but not dogs?
I for one find that cows and horses are very nice animals. And guinea pigs (Peru). Since quite some time our civilization offers the choice of not eating meat at all, which is what I'm doing. There is no need to put forth arguments from the neanderthal times to justify eating meat. This said, I find it shortsighted (to say the least) when people are scandalized because some people eat dog meat. Heck, on this Earth, right now, people are killing one another. Aren't the eyes and attitude of a person carrying much more feelings than one of a dog ?
You obviously don't have a pet dog. If you are a dog person its like asking what's wrong with eating humans? There are lots of them, they are a common animal
From my perspective yes. The world is seen by me through my eyes. I guess, philosophically speaking you have a point, but again it is simply an academic indulgence for me to consider that, but possibly not you.
As I wrote, I find cows and horses nice animals. I do not eat them. I do not eat meat. It is not about eating *your* dog. People living on small family farms live with animals day to day. Although not dogs, thet will one day eat the cow the children liked so much. They will eat the cow they have helped in giving birth. These are not the same bonds as pet dogs, but they are bonds. And they eat them. It's life. Many people today live in an idealized world with idealized values that gives them focused feelings when global life feelings are missing in the emotional landscape.
I have been to China several times, I even got married over there to a Chinese girl. I agree to everything you said except the last point...the Chinese are friendly people. The fact of the matter is: If you are a guest they will tear the shirt off their back to make you welcome. If you are a tourist, and you are a Westener, you are fair game to the most ingenious scams and they will all appear to be helpful and friendly. I mean this sincerely, be warned...they are clever and many are looking to find a way to survive. I do not blame them or judge them...I just call it the way I see them. By the way, I love my in-laws...they are honest and decent people. Sincerely...Steve
Well, I'm from China, please don't stereotype China, this is a big country. For example, Pollution is extreme in Beijing because it's near Mongol Desert, it doesn't mean it's extreme in southern China. Nice video by the way.
I was born in China and grew up here.....This is actually a very true video from the view of an American about this place and I like it.Woltersworld always gives such nice videos!
Squat toilets are very beneficial, it reduces constipation. When you sit on a toilet all comfy, you don't put in as much force as squatting which pushes out the content, sorry for the graphic, but this is indeed true hahaha
I've been to China 4 years ago and everything you said in the video is true. Visiting a toilet is an experience in its own. We were there for 4 weeks traveling through the country and I would recommend it to everybody. If you love coffee bring you own Nescafé with you because outside the big cities restaurants and hotels don't always server coffee.
Thank you so much for the information, I did not take thiss offensively, I thought you were sincere and informative. I wish I could have seen a short video like this before my visit to Turkey.
I have been to Beijing in 2011, right in the centre and everything this person said I did not see. The only thing he did tell the truth about was the smog, now that was true. Must see the Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City is breathe taking and walking on the Great Wall of China - Excerlating. I loved China full stop.
Mexican-American woman in China! Raised in Souf-Dallas 'hood, from TX & born in Mexico City! They will leave you alone xDAll in the video are true by the way!
I appreciate your rather objective commentary on China. As a Chinese myself, while we are proud of many things, I, for one, feel rather ashamed for our myriad of problems (spitting, air pollution, environmental degradation, corruption, human rights issues). Then again we have 1.3 billion people and shitloads of problems to fix, and worse of all, the brain wants to do something but the limbs are not very obedient. I can only hope time can make us more civilized.
Geekz Sorry, I apologise. Americans can't understand a word like queue. If only Americans were supposed to watch this video, the poster should have made it available only in the US.
I live in Nanning capital of Guangxi province. I have lived here for a number of years.Yes, there is some dog eaten here, along with snails, frogs, sparrows, pigeons,doves, duck, chicken, pork, beef and fish. I don't think I've ever eaten dog but it would be difficult to tell because of the way food is prepared here. Dog eating is on the decline around here, probably because of the fact that there are so many people keeping them as pets. As the man in the video said the food is generally great, so I, like him doesn't really want to know. China is a great place and as has been said in the video, the people are great.
Daniel Almeida why do you have a portuguese name lol where are you from? Anyway could you tell me, do they not clean they asses after using a toilet? do you know about that?
I am American, my dad is Venezuelan but just picked up the name. My mom is Colombian/Lebanese and French/Turkish. Haha and yes my family did not like it. My Uncle owns a factory and went to China on business and didn't like it much.
Yes. My great great grandparents emigrated from Lebanon in the early 20th century to Baranquilla Colombia (Shaquiras family who is also Lebanese came to Colombia from there). They thought Colombia was crap but had my great grandparents there, then they moved to Venezuela. Haha
Peter Boch Keep demonstrating that you have your head where you claim they do not use toilet paper. They carry their own toilet paper in the form of multi-use tissues! So tell us genius, what does an oh so civilized genius like yourself use if the restroom you ASSUMED would have toilet paper is out????????????
I have been told that they constantly cut in front of you (you can spend a whole day in the line and get nowhere), but that is likely because you leave a gap between you and the next person. I have also been told by a woman in her 60's that the men are rude and stuff you around. she got a sleeper cab on a train she paid for and this idiot tried to sleep in it and ignored her when she tried to kick him out. took her like 7 or 8 minutes to get him out even though she had paid for it.
China is a real country, not asceptized as the "developped" countries can be, that is why some people will not feel confortable there, that is why i love to go to China.
Update: As of the year 2005 and beyond, there's barely any squatter toilets in Beijing (or Shanghai). The average tourist in those cities will never see a squatter unless they're going into hovels for some reason.
+jesse p This hell aspect as you put it is in every bit a part of the Chinese history and culture. I don't think with the much negativity in your mind you are going to get much liking by the Chinese people anyway. So don't come until you've matured enough to learn how to make friends.
Einstein Albert well utilize the fact you can post links to websites now and cite an article or something Einstein. there must be something on the internet that backs up your claim.
I agree, in my 5 love and hates about China for tourists I mention one of the things I loved about China were the people. They were great. and it is getting better in china. the ex-pats there and locals both were saying that things had been improving in a lot of the ways that western tourists might be a bit shocked. thanks for watching and commenting!
auricom24 and you mean chinese copy other country's high speed railway and quantum communication system even its better than theirs？good job western country education
Been there, yes the spitting surprises you, very little English spoken anywhere but we didn't have any major problems, the pollution was poor, both of my kids are blonde and even at the tourist spots locals were asking for photos with them, we had a great time there!
When i went to China, i saw a man carrying a large turtle, and he was trying to sell it as food. I almost chased him down the street to try and buy this turtle and set it free, but i couldn't get to him. i cried about it. I also saw someone selling caged baby bunnies in the same way, in a subway. While it kills me to see this, we eat pigs, and cows and chickens who are just as intelligent, and cute, as the dog or cat in your lap. And, as outraged as we are to see this in China, many wouldn't bat an eyelid if someone wanted to go rabbit hunting, or pick a live lobster from the tank at a restaurant in western countries. We cant scream bloody murder at them all the time, not everyone in China is like what you see on the internet. There are chinese over there trying to stop the dog meat trade, and they are treated the same as a person would in a western country, that is trying to help caged chickens for example. (i'm Australian). They are met with hostility. Everyone thinks they are rude and judgmental, but we are judging them.. really?
As a Chinese having lived in Beijing for six years, I never encountered any stores or restaurants selling dog meat. This guy must have tried hard to dig this out. However, what is the problem with eating dogs? Some Chinese people do like dog meat, so do some people in many other countries. And also, cows, horses and pigs are showing up on dinner tables across many countries. Guys, stop your hatred and try to appreciate different things which do no harm to you. One more thing, cursing people will not make your day better...
LMAO absolutely true!!!! China is an amazing place, either good and bad things are amazing about China. If you are traveling there and like to know the culture go away Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, initially I was shocked and couldn't understand many things, but my cousin living there for several years gave me to reasons that made a lot of sense: their culture is 2000 years older than ours (specially north and south Americans, Australians and other "new" cultures) so their cultural roots are deep inside... and second they are 1.5 billion people so they don't give a f*** about West, they don't need to speak english, nor spanish, nor any other language, they don't have to understand any of our (western) preferences or things that we like because there are 1.5 billion people that think as they do... so take a breathe keep calm and you'll enjoy your trip, I really did!!!
+Juechulo Travelling is about experiencing that foreign culture that foreign destination has to offer. If everywhere you travel to caters 100% to your liking and that you couldn't cope with anything that comes your way off expectations, what's the fricking point to be on the go anyway.
+Good Day China was always poor and are only recently experiencing prosperity and modernity, it's completely normal, if you visit rich modern cities or city districts you'll basically see what you see in any rich cities, it depends where you go in China.
those unpleasant things will soon die out, I can assure you guys as a mainland citizen. every country had experienced such phase, If you do not believe, go back and check history of your own country, and apparently, China will be the quickest one to wipe out those quirky behaviors, do not overwhelmingly mock at Chinese, cause, every human being has desire to be that shitty when you are not that affluent. so wait and see that what Chinese can do in near future. possibly more civilized than you could image!
+Shield Patrick It's sad that nobody liked your comment because this is spot on and a fact, people are so fucking ignorant and will never admit that their countries were once like this.
+Vincent Deschenes Why is it sad? I don't think the chinese are more or less civilized then any other people in the world. Most of the things said in the video are just cultural differences.
NaFran49 LOL believe it or not, Americans when they started travelling to Europe, the British were calling Americans uncivilized, like the kid said read your own history.
I advise you visit Lebanon, and for a starter #1, Lebanon ISN'T as dangerous as much as you think! in fact it is safer than some areas of Paris and New York.
I believe some people (probably Chinese) were somewhat offended by this video, but I didn't get a bad vibe from Mark, he didn't mean to criticize or to offend anybody at all... It's just the culture shock, nothing else. - This video was done for Americans (or people who have been brought up with mostly American culture and traditions) who are planning on visiting another country. I have also been reading some negative comments talking bad about the Chinese, and these are just ignorant people, that must be ignored. I appreciate the video because it was produced with good intentions, and was not meant to offend anyone, just to inform future travelers on what to expect when visiting... thanks and please keep posting from more destinations!
I am a Chinese. I agree most of he said. Ahah that’s my country. Welcome. I don’t feel uncomfortable. Because it’s reality, China is a developing country
Yes. I thin so too. In fact this man is just reading it off and saying things so nonchalantly, because he is already used to it, and I am over here still stuck in my American ways silently-or not so silently- freaking out. He’s meaning well and almost laughing it off how shocked his kids and other people were at the culture shocks. It’s not mean spirited at all. Plus it’s not is fault if someone is freaked out. He can’t control people’s reactions.
Also, I would like to see a reverse video. I’m sure the Chinese have a lot to say about American culture. Those from the U.S. might not agree with everything the Chinese have to say on that topic either. 🤷♀️
haha, I am Chinese and I confirm everything you say is so true. Love your videos.
Let me add one more thing, the middle finger doesn't have any special meaning in China. It's just one of the five fingers. So don't be surprised if you see people showing you directions, pointing on paper, or especially on blackboards in front of a whole packed audience with their middle finger :)
zihui1234567 how do you guys wash your asses, it's an honest question, or you all also bring toilet paper into the stall?
Peter Boch true, in China people always bring their own toilet paper to the restroom, otherwise you are helplessly stuck in there :D
zihui1234567 oh thank god, I thought for a moment you guys just didn't clean it lol
***** Oh the irony. You're the one who called me a "tard" out of the blue. What do you want btw are you lonely or what, frustrated with life? fuck off, kid
***** Do you need a friend? Is this why you keep posting here?
No matter how much I tried to enjoy this..all I kept hearing is "smog...smog...bad air..smog..smog" I wish I was born 100 years ago so I could have seen this beautiful country in its prime.
100 years ago would have been civil unrest...more like 300,400 years ago, that would have been china at its cultural prime
donnk The only reason there was unrest was because of the influence of Japan, Mao Zedong didn't get involved until the 1920's so between 1900-1912 would have still been pretty great.
1000 years ago.
packerpf Disagree on that assumption. 1900-1912 China was still very divided and geographically split amongst petty leaders with the national government being led by the KMT, not a very good group.
***** You can disagree, it was my opinion that it still would have been pretty great. China was divided and they were trying to bring the country together, but the country overall was not in as bad of civil rest as the previous 200 years or the upcoming 50.
This video makes me really glad that I live in the US! As a substitute teacher I usually try to let kids go to the bathroom whenever they need to. I can’t imagine them doing it in the streets. They make enough messes as it is! I get enough culture shock by going to another state or city. I don’t need a whole new country.
I've never eaten dog in my whole life, same with the people I knew. Some people come to China and focus really hard to find a place (some tiny restaurants with very few customers) sells dog meat, and then they can say all Chinese eat dogs!!!
sagIa13 why u so focus on the remote area and rare cases？U can hold ur bias to Chinese and someday u can realize what really happening. Wearing bamboo.??.u r being ridiculous. If u haven't been to China, I really don't blame u. I'm trying to be polite. SHUT THE FUCK UP.
ROFL, i am not even trolling. Bamboo underwear is reality in china.
Jianing Cao Yo.
2 Chinese arrested in south korea, this month, for selling the medicines made up of human flesh.. China sold medicines to south korea that were made up of human baby flesh..
***** This is true, and it's bad of me, i agree here.
sagIa13 eat baby? WTF...in US there are real freak criminals which eat human meat!!!! If we don't know, how do you know??? I know everybody around me, you know what??
I crossed China off my list, Thanks!
I'm American and I've eaten dog meat and cat meat and even horse meat. I don't understand what all the fuss is about regarding what kind of meat someone eats. Some people don't eat beef, but they don't seem to ridicule those who do. Dogs and cats are animals just like cows and chickens and pigs. Eat or don't eat... but eating cow meat or factory farmed chicken isn't somehow more moral or civilized than eating dog meat.
Dogs and cats are domesticated that is why you don't eat them!
They can be your best friend. Would you eat your best friend?
Dogs and cats are predators just like us humans and predators normally don't eat other predators. That's why I think eating dog and cat meat is wrong and disgusting I would never do it in a million years and I'm asian. It should be banned!
You seem to feel strongly about your right to eat dog meat...lol
Best friend. Lol. Human made them that way. Not like the dogs choose to be our friends voluntarily. Maybe someday turkey could be Chinese people's best friend. Are you guys going to stop eating turkeys?
From someone who lives in China, I'd say this is a fair, factual, and helpful list for a newbie to China. Remember, newbies are his target audience. His most important point is to try to interact and get to know the Chinese people. If you do, you'll leave China loving it.
This is a very nice and informative video. As a Chinese-American, I don't see anything offensive here.
There are few cultures in the world more different from the West than the East. The Chinese have an ancient culture, largely insulated till recent times. So there is interplay between the old and new, which would probably make this an interesting trip for most people.
Yea, the hygiene and social manners sounds like it could use some updating.
But for a society that has undergone exploitation, war, famine,
immense poverty, cultural revolution all within living memory, the Chinese seem be a remarkable in tacked people. Its safe, it’s cheap and it’s a real experience for those adventurous enough to try something really different.
K Lee well said. thanks for watching and commenting!
Great job Mark! I have been living and working in China since 1996 and will send this video to a few buddies before they arrive this summer. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work!
I feel bad for this video guy. He made a series of video in an attempt to educate people and yet racists had taken shelter here to twist his words and use it for their own vile purpose.
He's been on the internet for years. He knows whats up.
What if it IS about the Chinese?????????
not racist to recognize chinese culture sucks
The thing is that it’s such a big country and people are really different from place to place. The things to see and views are also very different. I understand people all go to Beijing or xian and big cities when first travel in China... but not suggested. The people you see in Beijing are mainly from else where and they temporarily live there for better opportunities and money. What I mean is you can’t feel easy and relaxed-it’s crowded and overwhelming. For example, you can choose to go to Huang Shan(yellow mountain). You can spend one week on it if you wanna totally enjoy it. It’s shocking beautiful and natural and historical(you can see the poetry everywhere in the rocks and there were from ancient poets). Go to Suzhou and check out the Suzhou gardens, they are masterpieces. Go to Yunnan and check out the lochs and snow mountains. Go to Hainan province and rent a villa (modern decorated with garden, pool and I bet good price) with your own beach and drink huge fresh coconuts like water everyday. I can’t describe more places that are amazing but tourists don’t know. I know Beijing is famous for the Great Wall and forbidden city, but it’s a chaotic place that the local Beijing people never travel to Tian am men or any of the famous places.
Thank you for another good video mate. China is an amazing place for those who understand that it is an ancient civilisation with a rich history and a beautiful country and people. Keep up the good work!
The video is right and he is saying the truth,, thanks to him for exposing them, I live in China and I suffer daily , please keep this Chinese propaganda ( ancient civilisation with a rich history and a beautiful country and people) to yourself , China is full of shit and their government are doing nothing about it
It is getting better, that is very true. Thanks for watching and commenting and I hope your studies in the UK go well! Mark
I love going to China- The food culture, the Nature, History and people. China is the center of Asian culture. If you know where to go or have some friends It can be an amazing place. Just so you know China, Korea and Japan are all much more developed then Europe or USA. After coming back from China or Japan I always feel like Im back in 3rd worlds countries;/
1. Toilets - You'll see those holes only in public toilets. I personally hate sitting where thousands of others have already sat, so I prefer the holes.
2. Spitting - True, and disgusting!!!
3. Smog - You'd better bring masks. It's really terrible.
4. Eating dogs - In fact a lot of foreign tourists want to try it.
5. Queue - There is no such thing in China xD
6. People - I wouldn't be shocked.
7. Foreign kids - Not only with kids, young Chinese girls love to take pictures with foreign guys as well.
8. Traffic - Don't even try to figure out how to cross the streets alone. Just follow other people. In my words : Use them as your shield.. xD
9. Kids peepee weedee - It's alright, they are kids. Wait till you see adults do that..
10. Friendly people - You are shocked because you think they are not supposed to be friendly? Anyway, even I was surprised last time when I traveled to China with two German friends. (I'm Chinese of course)
novHeavens loved your comments :)
Mark, I love your enthusiasm for China. It's infectious. Makes me want to come there. What I really like about what you said is how friendly the people are. I would really love to live somewhere that is true.
Sadly I live in the US and in most major cities it seems to be a matter of pride as to how rude people are.
Do you live there or just visiting?
Squat toilets. Given the increasing Mac assisted size of Americans and Australians, if they have to squat many will not be getting up again without the assistance of an overhead crane.
coweatsman lmao
+Steve Soares The west is strong in this one
+Hybridtheory32 XD
+The Shadow Broker Oh , i'm a fat Chinese , 5'8'' (173cm )and 200 pounds , I'm telling you squatting is hell , especially with the big belly , you would feel like you can't breathe , I have sitting toilet at home but when I have to go in public , tips :
face down , hand hang on to something if you can .
+Steve Soares 1. Modern medical research shows sitting toilet increase chance of getting cancer , squatting can be painful for some modern human , but remember our ancestors has been on that position for hundreds of thousands of years , so it is the most healthy position , it even avoid contact .
2.we are animals , so no , it shouldn't be an issue , yourself is the issue .
I live in China. It's fucking amazing here. It's got it's problems, just like everywhere else in the world. Most of these 'shock' differences are just cultural differences. So what if some restaurants serve dog? Some people eat horse, chicken, duck, cow, pig... whatever. A dog is no different no matter how stupid you are. Saying cow is fine but dog is not makes you a hypocrite. About the queuing up: No Chinese person gives a shit if someone cuts in front of them. If no one cares, then why is it a problem? That's just how it is. Just because you do it differently doesn't mean they are wrong. On the traffic issue: "they won't stop, they'll just hit you." Bullshit. I feel fairly safe crossing a chinese road. The drivers are so used to weaving in and out, dodging pedestrians, mopeds, bikes they will not hit you. It looks scary and crazy to us foreigners but once you're used to it, it's really not a problem.
dog is our friends ，i oppose to make it like meal···I‘m luke from china ，service in the furniture trading areas
Jordan Humphries the don't serve dogs in china
Support in China.
We were there basically all summer and I could not find anything really helpful online before we left so I had lots of ideas for videos and once we got there I learned a lot. and I hope all these videos will help people visiting china so they can have a better, more fun, less "shocking" time :)
all the best to you King!
Whenever I travel I always adopt the When in Rome attitude.
Im a chinese and yess ppl do respect each other A-lot so basicly if u dont know some1s name u call tjem sister or brother etc
I visited FIVE CITIES back in November, and in all of the places I've been in where I had to use the bathroom, every single place... I did not see even one single floor toilet. All the others are more or less spot on. I ate out every single night but never saw "dog" on the menu anywhere, although I did have an issue with some of the menu items in a place in one city. All in all, the experience was unforgettable and I'm moving there this July.
I think you could hardly find the dog meat in the dinner , unless you are going to some special cities whose custom involves eating dog. Actually we chinese don't eat dogs in daily life.
I loved China. Fantastic place with fantastic people. Can't wait to go back
great... i'm going to china in a few weeks, i dont know how i should feel about it now
I loved it. We had a great time. Just be prepared for a lot of people all the time. Eat well!
woltersworld thank you !
+Charlotte Langel I taught English there for five months and loved it. The people are fantastic. And - hey - that's why you travel - to experience something different from home and expand your world view. If you want everything to be just like home, forget about it, just stay home. Some of the things you'll experience will be so absurd, you'll be laughing and talking about it for years. Just embrace the differences. North Americans tend to think that the way they do things is the "right" way, but need to learn that there is a huge world out there, and many different ways to live. Enjoy and have fun!
missmayflower I'm european, but thanks!
+Charlotte Langel gold to hear that, i am Chinese , i live Hagnzhou , already here? if u come to Shang hai or Hangzhou, please tell me i d like to meet you,and guide for you ,free !lol! just wanna practice Eglish and make friends.may i have you Fb ?
Squat toilets and spitting are disgusting but tolerable.
Pooping on the streets is revolting. Totally makes me not wanna visit.
+afonsords i spent over 4 months in China on 4 trips, i never saw anyone peeing or pooping on the street, dont beleive all the anti chinese crap you read, it does happen, but rarely, and mostly little toddlers peeing.
+afonsords What about eating dogs?!?!?!
+Vincent Deschenes First of all, you are just mostly copying and pasting the same comment on most of the posts. So who is the "stupid" one here?
whutzat Because people keep saying the same retarded shit?
You're stupid for not recognizing different cultures, besides, myself who actually knows a lot about China is aware that eating dogs is more of a south China culture things and is usually a delicacy that is consumed on special occasions, in north China not so much, in fact, the majority of Chinese people do NOT eat dog.
Secondly the ''pooing on the street'' stuff is very uncommon, you could stay in China for a year and won't ever witness anything like that, you realize that China is in the middle of urbanization process right? Which means rural people migrate to cities, and these people are not accustomed to urban lifestyle, those are the ones who do this kind of thing.
Thirdly, unlike here, it's a little more difficult to find public restrooms in China, little kids can't hold it.
Have you heard of the same problems in San Francisco? People urinating all over the streets? LOL
+Vincent Deschenes I said nothing about defecating or urinating. Only about then eating dogs.
I've lived in China for 2 years so far and he is 100% correct on all of his points! Great video!
Thanks for the support! It means a lot. All the best to you!
Like many friends said. It is country in developing. People are changing, I'm pretty sure it will gets better. U can't use your standards to measure a nation will this amount of people. I also had serious problem with the traffic thing like Cars won't stop for u. To be honest i was angry at first time.But the thing is, They are changing.
Do not compare this with HonKong, how many people live there. If Chinese's population is less 30% than now. I am 100% sure it's going to be lot easier for Chinese government tho. World is changing, so are they. Have faith, and peace out :d
Wow, I have never had any desire to go to China but now I am convinced I will NEVER go there! Ugh. Thanks for the heads up.
Excellent video man, the first time I hear someone acknowledge the bad part of China with the comments section going into a war zone.
I went to China in August 2013- solo traveler- can speak basic mandarin- My plan was to not plan anything too far ahead and just go where events take you. [I went to Beijing-Tianjin-Qingdao-Nanjing-Shanghai-Beijing]. I even stayed in hutongs in beijing and didnt have any problems living there. I found people to be very nice and helpful. I travel alot and just accept that things in every country are different- so I wouldnt say these things "shocked" me, but can I say that I had almost exactly the same observations as you make in your video of things that are very different in China- I just loved being in China and just facing life as it is lived in China. I will definitely be back.
But WHY do the children poop in the street?
Because there are not enough restrooms in China, unlike in US, restrooms are everywhere, they just can't find one near but the kids usually can't hold it for too long.
winniehwm
Sooo... why not build more?
BeyondBreakevenTrading And you PROVE that you are a ignorant sanctimonious ass.
Apparently you have not frequented the city of "pigs" known as San Francisco with their epidemic of people defecating on the streets.
The split pants are a carryover from life in rural China where having to run in to change a kid every few hours when working in fields was NOT practical. But where relieving oneself outdoors in a field was inconsequential and actually a quite practical solution.
This is changing with the Chinese becoming increasingly urban and especially with younger Chinese becoming upset when grandparents allow such behavior when they look after the small kids.
There are plenty of private restrooms, but not all businesses have public restrooms. Malls and other larger establishments do have restrooms, and many businesses reserve the use of their restrooms for patrons. That said, there are public restrooms, although they may not be as common as you might be used to in the states.So a bit of anticipatory planning is prudent.
And its normal to carry either small packets of tissues in your purse or pocket, or to carry some 'napkins' in your rear pocket like a handkerchief. Its easy and after about a week, it becomes normal.
+Mycenaea interesting question. back then i hated so much that the chinese people poo and pee everywhere, until my pastor told me the reason. back then, many chinese people work in the agricultural industry, and so this means that there is farmland everywhere. Kids play at the fields, and so it makes sense that they simply pee and soil on the soil, because our poo is a sort of fertilizer. of course, it's extremely disgusting and uncilivilize to pee on concrete streets in streets, but knowing a person's cultural background and stuff; we should show our understanding, respect and patience. the reason some of them do these very uncilivized things in other countries is becuase they don't know that is prohibited. so if necessary, just tell them genuinely and politely what is right to do and what is not right to do. if they don't listen, that's their choice, that they insist to be so uncivilized. however, i believethat most people are open to listen to others' suggestions. we should always respect other cultures, no matter how novel that could be to us
+Scintia Chao
whats the difference
when an American left its "stinkbombs" on a field,
and Chinese left its?
Chinese are gone in 1 day, US uran ammunition stays.
I live in Taiwan now, but I also loved when I was living in the mainland. A few more things...
The pointing and staring, People not believeing that you are not rich, also on that note; your bike being stolen every few weeks (even if it had a lock on it). But the people for the most part are very friendly, and fun to be around.
I've lived in China for the past 6 years and find the people there very friendly and most of China to be very enjoyable. I've been to Beijing many times but never experienced any pollution problem that you hear about.
I've visited many Cities from Beijing to Shangri-La at the foothills of Tibet and have found the people and the cities very worth the visit. Only rarely will you see what this man describes. I met my wife there and she is the sweetest young lady that a man could have for a wife.
If you want a really interesting experience, you might try teaching English in China. I taught at the University and found the students and teachers very accommodating and interested in all aspects of American life and culture.
You stole my words haha. You are truly 100% right!!
My husband was in Beijing and said the pollution was so bad you couldn't even see across the street and people wore masks.... married to a Chinese.
Yes, that line thing bothers me....they try to do it here in SF. I try to be nice & say "hey let the people off first", but it doesn't always work
I went backpacking with my boyfriend this summer for a month, best trip of my life! I agree with most of what you said. Toilets were a bit scary to begin with, but once you get the knack of it, it's not so bad. I would recommend being strategic about when you go, if your in a hotel or anywhere that has a reasonable loo, take the opportunity, you'll regret it otherwise!
Regarding queues, it's just another thing you'll adapt to if your around for longer than a week, after a while you won't even realise any more, it actually surprised me when I landed back in the UK and someone waited for me to leave the lift before bustling in.
Both me and my boyfriend are very pale with blonde curly hair, so it did feel like we were some kind of novelty when people want pictures with you (at least once a day), once you get over the shock the first few times it just becomes a bit of fun. They almost always do it because they like the way you look and will compliment you, or are just interested, they may laugh but they're not laughing at you or being mean, and you'll just get used to it.
With crossing the road in big cities, even after a few weeks, we usually just hung about until some Chinese went to cross, and just took their lead. If you plan on renting a bike (wouldn't recommend in the big cities) make sure you've been in China for some time and have a vague understanding of what kind of mentality road users have. It seems to be just as much about body language as it does about rules, much like queuing, if you show any sign of hesitation then you won't get very far.
The people really just want to help you out, we were having some trouble at the train station in the first week, and a girl was really trying to help us, even though she could speak about as much English as we could Mandarin, she spent about 10 minutes of her time trying to help us. I would say always have a notepad and pen in your pocket, if you quickly need to communicate something you can draw it out or write down a time/date/platform number to show someone etc.
Something that surprised me was counting on your hands is different, try and learn the hand signals for the numbers before you go, its much easier to understand someone who is visually showing how much something costs than getting flustered when they're telling you in Mandarin.
I don't think any of these things are a reason to not go to China, it's an incredible experience, and just remember if you are really confused/disgusted/shocked by anything you see, once you get home and for years you'll think back and it will make you laugh, no matter how disturbing it was at the time!
That cicada(or whatever) in the background made my dog go nuts. Was quite hilarious.
I have been to China twice. I love it. There are toilet paper in all the restrooms I had been to. The food was delicious. China is a country of history of 5 thousand years. If you look for dirt, you will find it right in own back yard.
Fantastic video, man. Very enlightening. Not sure why, but I'm 42 and just now taking a serious interest in learning Mandarin. So, it's no surprise I'm curious about the mainland culture. Your #10 on the list is about the best thing I could hope for, though, and who knows -- maybe one day I'll get to visit there as well.
The spitting has nothing to do with the pollution, that's just a poor excuse trotted out. I've lived in China for more than 7 years, my English compatriot has been here for 10 years.. neither of us feel the need to spit. Even in the rural areas where the environment is clean - they still spit!
Chinese people are incredibly friendly, I've never had any issues with them, however, in general they are NOT helpful - whenever anything unsavoury happens they will just stand around, watch or maybe film on their mobile phones but generally do nothing to help the situation.
The "not helpful" part is actually a more recent phenomenon, because more and more people are starting to fear false accusations. For instance, there have been stories (both confirmed and unconfirmed) of people falling over, someone rushing up to help them as good samaritans, and then being accused of causing the fall and subsequent "injuries." Then it's up to the good samaritan to prove his/her innocence in the face of a false accusation, which opens up a huge can of worms. That's why these days more and more people are being persuaded not to get involved and instead just leave it to the police or any first responders who happen to be nearby.
I've never been to China, but I can confirm the Chinese people love Western kids. When my daughter was a baby and we'd visit our favorite Chinese restaurant, all the female servers would stop working and take my baby from me. They'd all take turns holding and snuggling her and speaking Chinese to her. They were always very polite and friendly, and the restaurant was small, so I wasn't worried. They always sat at a nearby table near me. The female owner told me that none of the women had daughters because they had all been affected by the former one-child rule in China.
"The Chinese are nice people" "if they see you in the street they won't stop they'll hit you" LMAOO
1. Very true
2. It gets disgusting where people do spit. They do it everywhere, and sometimes not in trash cans.
3. Yes, pollution can be very bad. In America you would think fog, here it is pollution.
4. Any type of meat can happen. Can be live as well, almost anything goes here.
5. Lines suck here for sure. People trying to skip all the time.
6. Coming from a small town in southwest Virginia, yes there are a lot of people. Rickshaws are awesome, and it is very safe.
7. I get asked almost everyday to take a picture.
8. Traffic sucks, and people do not follow the laws.... It gets crazy. My taxi the other day drove on the bike path to get around people to take me home. In China, green light means you can cross but cars still have the right a way. Stupid but true.
9. My first day I walked out of my place and saw a kid crapping in the street with a mom on the phone holding a broom and dustpan. I have seen kids peeing and pooping right in front of bathroom signs. You will see it happen. And I lived in Shanghai for a year so that is where I saw it.
10. Chinese people are friendly when it comes to not hurting what they want. They are the most selfish people I have met. I had 60+ year old ladies trying to shoulder charge me to get on the train to get one of the seats. If you are out and about, and ask a question, they will help. But when they are doing what they need, watch out.
I visited China with my daughter for 10 days, staying briefly in Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, and we experienced all the things that are mentioned in this video. We're from the US and found China exciting and enchanting. It was clean!!! Yes, they have air pollution - with this many people and that much industry - there's going to be, but the basic surroundings - even around construction sites were immaculate. No litter, no graffiti - you can't say that in any city in the US. The people are so industrious, helpful, kind, and welcoming - we would definitely come back for another visit and traveling as two women, we always felt safe.
Thank you
Thanks. I really enjoyed my time in china.
wow a lot of racists in the comment section now I know why aliens don't come to visit us
Thinking a country is shit isn't racist you dull witted individual.
Every time I go to a country. I consult Wolter.
It's unfortunate that when they come over to Canada, they bring those horrid customs and manners over with them. I like the deals and prices they have in Chinatown, but the employees are so rude and unhelpful. They don't seem to want to make any effort in assimilating and learning the language and customs here. And they also don't line up and just bud in when wanting to get at things. Smoking is a cool status to them and they do it while stocking produce outside the stores.
Racist
I have done 10 months worth of traveling in China, Mark Wolters is 100% correct.
Taiwan, Singapore and HongKong are much nicer and cleaner.
ngaiskate there you go. Thanks for commenting!
Honest question: what's wrong with eating dogs? A lot of people seem to have this stance that eating dogs is inherently wrong. Dogs are a common animal; pigs are also a common animal. How come it's okay to eat pigs but not dogs?
I for one find that cows and horses are very nice animals. And guinea pigs (Peru). Since quite some time our civilization offers the choice of not eating meat at all, which is what I'm doing. There is no need to put forth arguments from the neanderthal times to justify eating meat. This said, I find it shortsighted (to say the least) when people are scandalized because some people eat dog meat. Heck, on this Earth, right now, people are killing one another. Aren't the eyes and attitude of a person carrying much more feelings than one of a dog ?
You obviously don't have a pet dog. If you are a dog person its like asking what's wrong with eating humans? There are lots of them, they are a common animal
Caver461 Interesting. So does it all come down to personal preference and desire? Does your love for dogs make it wrong for other people to eat them?
From my perspective yes. The world is seen by me through my eyes. I guess, philosophically speaking you have a point, but again it is simply an academic indulgence for me to consider that, but possibly not you.
As I wrote, I find cows and horses nice animals. I do not eat them. I do not eat meat. It is not about eating *your* dog. People living on small family farms live with animals day to day. Although not dogs, thet will one day eat the cow the children liked so much. They will eat the cow they have helped in giving birth. These are not the same bonds as pet dogs, but they are bonds. And they eat them. It's life. Many people today live in an idealized world with idealized values that gives them focused feelings when global life feelings are missing in the emotional landscape.
I have been to China several times, I even got married over there to a Chinese girl. I agree to everything you said except the last point...the Chinese are friendly people. The fact of the matter is: If you are a guest they will tear the shirt off their back to make you welcome. If you are a tourist, and you are a Westener, you are fair game to the most ingenious scams and they will all appear to be helpful and friendly. I mean this sincerely, be warned...they are clever and many are looking to find a way to survive. I do not blame them or judge them...I just call it the way I see them. By the way, I love my in-laws...they are honest and decent people. Sincerely...Steve
Well, I'm from China, please don't stereotype China, this is a big country.
For example, Pollution is extreme in Beijing because it's near Mongol Desert, it doesn't mean it's extreme in southern China.
Nice video by the way.
...we know that pollution doesn't come from the desert, We have deserts too, so we know the difference between SAND and SMOG.
'Because it's near Mongol desert'? you mean sandstorms? hahaha
I was born in China and grew up here.....This is actually a very true video from the view of an American about this place and I like it.Woltersworld always gives such nice videos!
Squat toilets are very beneficial, it reduces constipation. When you sit on a toilet all comfy, you don't put in as much force as squatting which pushes out the content, sorry for the graphic, but this is indeed true hahaha
There might be a small benefit for that, but the disadvantages are bigger, risking slipping and getting shit on your clothes etc
@@leob4403 People get used to it over time.
I have to say, it is really true in the small cities and villages of China~But it`s becoming more and more better now. Especially in big cities.
LONG LIVE CHINESE PEOPLE. THEY ARE AMAZING
Abby Lee they were fantastic to us while we were in China. Loved them.
woltersworld i think chinese people more friend than thai people as i travel to these two country ,and i find it
I've been to China 4 years ago and everything you said in the video is true. Visiting a toilet is an experience in its own. We were there for 4 weeks traveling through the country and I would recommend it to everybody. If you love coffee bring you own Nescafé with you because outside the big cities restaurants and hotels don't always server coffee.
Thanks so much. Now I never plan on visiting
Thank you so much for the information, I did not take thiss offensively, I thought you were sincere and informative. I wish I could have seen a short video like this before my visit to Turkey.
I have been to Beijing in 2011, right in the centre and everything this person said I did not see. The only thing he did tell the truth about was the smog, now that was true. Must see the Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City is breathe taking and walking on the Great Wall of China - Excerlating. I loved China full stop.
Mexican-American woman in China! Raised in Souf-Dallas 'hood, from TX & born in Mexico City! They will leave you alone xDAll in the video are true by the way!
My dad visited guangzhou China for business and he told me China was way more developed than he thought and yeah someday I want to go China 🇨🇳
once i heard # 9 i have no desire to visit this place
+infoguy1978 yeah no shit! Literally!
+infoguy1978 Number #4 didn't worry you?!?!?
I appreciate your rather objective commentary on China. As a Chinese myself, while we are proud of many things, I, for one, feel rather ashamed for our myriad of problems (spitting, air pollution, environmental degradation, corruption, human rights issues). Then again we have 1.3 billion people and shitloads of problems to fix, and worse of all, the brain wants to do something but the limbs are not very obedient. I can only hope time can make us more civilized.
This video has convinced me, I do not want to go to China.
Also the word you are looking for is queues.
nope, lines.
Funny, I didn't think the video was set in America.
jjaus Except the person talking is American so your point is completely invalid.
Geekz
Sorry, I apologise. Americans can't understand a word like queue. If only Americans were supposed to watch this video, the poster should have made it available only in the US.
jjaus Or you can't understand a word like Line - I'm from Canada and they call them Lines... Brits have everything backwards.
I've been living in China for just over two years now and this video is spot on. Great job!
Andre Smal thanks Andre. Great to hear that. all the best to you!
I don't like Americans, period !!
+Andre Smal Such a hypocrite
Friendly? uhm are you sure?
they are very rude people. at least in my experience. and god awful loud..
说得好
I live in Nanning capital of Guangxi province. I have lived here for a number of years.Yes, there is some dog eaten here, along with snails, frogs, sparrows, pigeons,doves, duck, chicken, pork, beef and fish. I don't think I've ever eaten dog but it would be difficult to tell because of the way food is prepared here. Dog eating is on the decline around here, probably because of the fact that there are so many people keeping them as pets. As the man in the video said the food is generally great, so I, like him doesn't really want to know. China is a great place and as has been said in the video, the people are great.
my family went to China and absolutely hated it lol.
Daniel Almeida why do you have a portuguese name lol where are you from? Anyway could you tell me, do they not clean they asses after using a toilet? do you know about that?
I am American, my dad is Venezuelan but just picked up the name. My mom is Colombian/Lebanese and French/Turkish. Haha and yes my family did not like it.
My Uncle owns a factory and went to China on business and didn't like it much.
Daniel Almeida colombian/lebanese? õ.O lol. And I thought I was unlikely
Yes. My great great grandparents emigrated from Lebanon in the early 20th century to Baranquilla Colombia (Shaquiras family who is also Lebanese came to Colombia from there).
They thought Colombia was crap but had my great grandparents there, then they moved to Venezuela. Haha
Peter Boch Keep demonstrating that you have your head where you claim they do not use toilet paper.
They carry their own toilet paper in the form of multi-use tissues!
So tell us genius, what does an oh so civilized genius like yourself use if the restroom you ASSUMED would have toilet paper is out????????????
I have been told that they constantly cut in front of you (you can spend a whole day in the line and get nowhere), but that is likely because you leave a gap between you and the next person. I have also been told by a woman in her 60's that the men are rude and stuff you around. she got a sleeper cab on a train she paid for and this idiot tried to sleep in it and ignored her when she tried to kick him out. took her like 7 or 8 minutes to get him out even though she had paid for it.
China is a real country, not asceptized as the "developped" countries can be, that is why some people will not feel confortable there, that is why i love to go to China.
Update: As of the year 2005 and beyond, there's barely any squatter toilets in Beijing (or Shanghai). The average tourist in those cities will never see a squatter unless they're going into hovels for some reason.
so china sounds like absolute hell.
jesse p Wrong. But with luck that means we won't be subjected to your presence.
+jesse p It is.
+jesse p It is hell. so plz dont come
Bin Zhang
i hope it gets better, i really like chinese history and culture.
+jesse p This hell aspect as you put it is in every bit a part of the Chinese history and culture. I don't think with the much negativity in your mind you are going to get much liking by the Chinese people anyway. So don't come until you've matured enough to learn how to make friends.
Love all of your travel videos!
# 1. I'M NOT GOING TO CHINA!
one day you won't be too young :) learn a little Chinese now and you will be a rock star when you get there! all the best, thanks for watching
you will be hurking and spitting too because there is so much pollution.. ok that's enough of this video, I'll stop there .. forget it.
Just like America
willie billie America is one of the top polluters in the civilized word bud,if you think for a second that we are not then it is you that is the moron
willie billie not all of America but we have a lot of places that smog gets really bad,and fuck off while your at it.
Einstein Albert
well utilize the fact you can post links to websites now and cite an article or something Einstein. there must be something on the internet that backs up your claim.
yes i hardly ever saw blue sky
I agree, in my 5 love and hates about China for tourists I mention one of the things I loved about China were the people. They were great. and it is getting better in china. the ex-pats there and locals both were saying that things had been improving in a lot of the ways that western tourists might be a bit shocked. thanks for watching and commenting!
What's with the Dutch boy hair ?
fyrcrack1 I am living the dream that I still have hair until it is all completely fallen out ;)
woltersworld xD good answer, ty for the info.
Dude I Been here for two years now, and you are spot on. The dog carcasses hanging in the meat markets really upset me the worst.
I dont think its nice to poop on the street!!
in Paris there is a lot of poop in the street , not only from dogs
Its not nice anywhere
no, in Germany we have toilettes. No one would dare to poo in puplic. Chinese dont care to loose their face?
Are toilettes not copied yet?
auricom24 the only contry in the world still poop on street is india. get it right :)
auricom24 and you mean chinese copy other country's high speed railway and quantum communication system even its better than theirs？good job western country education
Been there, yes the spitting surprises you, very little English spoken anywhere but we didn't have any major problems, the pollution was poor, both of my kids are blonde and even at the tourist spots locals were asking for photos with them, we had a great time there!
I grew up in one communist country I will never visit another.
ussr?
Jonas Herbstritter too bad my comment was deleted
problem is, today's China is probably less Communist than your beloved EU, my Ukie friend.
REBUILD THE WALL ASAP (SYRIAN INVASION)
Great review, thanks for doing this!
Its George Washington!!
Mud Sh-sh-shark you caught me! ;)
woltersworld Very informative vids George, enjoyed them muchly ;]
When i went to China, i saw a man carrying a large turtle, and he was trying to sell it as food. I almost chased him down the street to try and buy this turtle and set it free, but i couldn't get to him. i cried about it. I also saw someone selling caged baby bunnies in the same way, in a subway. While it kills me to see this, we eat pigs, and cows and chickens who are just as intelligent, and cute, as the dog or cat in your lap. And, as outraged as we are to see this in China, many wouldn't bat an eyelid if someone wanted to go rabbit hunting, or pick a live lobster from the tank at a restaurant in western countries. We cant scream bloody murder at them all the time, not everyone in China is like what you see on the internet. There are chinese over there trying to stop the dog meat trade, and they are treated the same as a person would in a western country, that is trying to help caged chickens for example. (i'm Australian). They are met with hostility. Everyone thinks they are rude and judgmental, but we are judging them.. really?
As a Chinese having lived in Beijing for six years, I never encountered any stores or restaurants selling dog meat. This guy must have tried hard to dig this out. However, what is the problem with eating dogs? Some Chinese people do like dog meat, so do some people in many other countries. And also, cows, horses and pigs are showing up on dinner tables across many countries. Guys, stop your hatred and try to appreciate different things which do no harm to you. One more thing, cursing people will not make your day better...
doubllle have you seen how the dogs are treated? They are skinned and boiled alived ffs
You have entertaining videos - thanks much there man!
Joey
Thanks Joey!
LMAO absolutely true!!!! China is an amazing place, either good and bad things are amazing about China. If you are traveling there and like to know the culture go away Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, initially I was shocked and couldn't understand many things, but my cousin living there for several years gave me to reasons that made a lot of sense: their culture is 2000 years older than ours (specially north and south Americans, Australians and other "new" cultures) so their cultural roots are deep inside... and second they are 1.5 billion people so they don't give a f*** about West, they don't need to speak english, nor spanish, nor any other language, they don't have to understand any of our (western) preferences or things that we like because there are 1.5 billion people that think as they do... so take a breathe keep calm and you'll enjoy your trip, I really did!!!
+Juechulo Travelling is about experiencing that foreign culture that foreign destination has to offer. If everywhere you travel to caters 100% to your liking and that you couldn't cope with anything that comes your way off expectations, what's the fricking point to be on the go anyway.
+Good Day China was always poor and are only recently experiencing prosperity and modernity, it's completely normal, if you visit rich modern cities or city districts you'll basically see what you see in any rich cities, it depends where you go in China.
im glad u say china is safe very reassuring since ill be going there soon
those unpleasant things will soon die out, I can assure you guys as a mainland citizen. every country had experienced such phase, If you do not believe, go back and check history of your own country, and apparently, China will be the quickest one to wipe out those quirky behaviors, do not overwhelmingly mock at Chinese, cause, every human being has desire to be that shitty when you are not that affluent. so wait and see that what Chinese can do in near future. possibly more civilized than you could image!
+Shield Patrick It's sad that nobody liked your comment because this is spot on and a fact, people are so fucking ignorant and will never admit that their countries were once like this.
+Vincent Deschenes Why is it sad? I don't think the chinese are more or less civilized then any other people in the world. Most of the things said in the video are just cultural differences.
NaFran49 LOL believe it or not, Americans when they started travelling to Europe, the British were calling Americans uncivilized, like the kid said read your own history.
"tried to eat dog but couldn't"
Sorry Mark. You just got knocked about a million pegs down in my book.
Why, do you hate dogs?
Friendly? Nah...i don't think so...
The only way I can understand somebody eating dog is if they were in an extreme starvation situation and lost their sanity.
Thx I canceled my vacation I'll go to Syria better
Fernando Figueroa ahahhaha
Fernando Figueroa Good. We don't need any more culturally ignorant laowai visiting China. Syria sounds just like your kind of place.
Fernando Figueroa Nice choice! How was the war there？😂
Thanks Mr.Manning
China sounds great :/
completely agree. thanks for the tips! I really appreciate it!
is there,............ dragon meat?
+master power A saying in China that “dragon meat in heaven, donkey meat on earth". It says how delicious donkey meat is.
I advise you visit Lebanon, and for a starter #1, Lebanon ISN'T as dangerous as much as you think! in fact it is safer than some areas of Paris and New York.
In the USA, Lebanon does not have a reputation for being dangerous
Haha not Lebanon though.