Chinese Dinning Etiquette

Within Chinese traditions, eating has far more functions than just filling the stomach or bringing Gastronomic pleasure. It strengthens kinship and friendship.Sometimes eating also functions as a way of reporting back to the superior and pepping up the subordinates.

According to ancient formalities,the host of a banquet issued invitations to his guests well in advance.On the banquet day, the host would greet the guests and usher them into the sitting room for tea.Then,the guests would be led to their seats in the banquet hall.

For the seating arrangement,the left or eastward side is considered most honorable,the seat facing the door most venerable of all.The second most prestigious seat is opposite the first,the third is adjacent to the first seat.

When all were seated,the host would make a toast and invite guests to help themselves to the dishes,and the guests would express their thanks.

hancheng

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