Introduction

Thanks to news media, internet articles, movies, and cultural exchanges, many people moving to China have a good idea of what to expect while living and working as an ESL teacher. However, there are a few aspects that deeply surprised me when I began teaching English in China.

China Has Different Regional Cultures

When I first moved to China, I thought Chinese culture was a general, traditional concept with only a few local variations. However, China is such a large and diverse country that the culture varies dramatically from region to region.

Eastern China tends to be more industrialized and cosmopolitan. Western China has several unique traditional holidays and customs. Food specialties differ greatly depending on the region. Some areas emphasize nearby cultural exchanges, such as Mongolian influences in northern China or Russian influences around Harbin. Even administrative structures vary depending on whether a region is classified as a province, municipality, autonomous region, or special administrative region. Likewise, language, accents, dialects, and slang shift significantly across the country.

If you plan on teaching English abroad in China, be prepared to encounter a wide range of regional cultures and customs.

China Is a High-Context Communication Culture

Many Western countries rely on direct, explicit language, especially in professional settings. In contrast, China places greater importance on the context of communication. Subtle verbal cues, body language, and social signals often carry more meaning than the actual words spoken.

For ESL teachers in China, this means it’s a good idea to follow up after meetings with coworkers or supervisors to clarify project goals and expectations. Being proactive in communication is key to succeeding in a Chinese work environment.

People Are Very Considerate of the Language Barrier

Chinese people are aware that Mandarin, with its tonal system, can be challenging for non-native speakers. Fortunately, most people are patient and understanding when foreigners struggle with the language.

As an ESL teacher or expat living in China, you’ll likely find that locals are happy to give you time to use your phone for translations or to let you practice your basic Mandarin. This kind of support makes adjusting to life in China much easier.

Spitting Isn’t Really Considered Rude

On the east coast of China, especially in large cities, the country has experienced rapid modernization and cultural shifts. In these areas, spitting in public is much less common, though not entirely frowned upon. In western China or smaller towns, it’s not unusual to see older locals spitting while walking outdoors.

While this may seem shocking at first, it’s not considered offensive within the culture. As an ESL teacher adapting to life in China, it’s best not to take it personally or assume bad manners.

There’s a Huge International Community

China has a strong demand for skilled professionals, especially English teachers and international workers. With its growing economy and large cities, thousands of expats from across the globe live and work in China.

If you’re teaching English in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, or other major cities, expect to find a large international community. From coworking spaces to cultural events, it’s easy to connect with fellow expats and create a support network while living abroad.

Conclusion

Overall, China offers a unique and eye-opening experience for ESL teachers. While many aspects of life in China are as expected, there are plenty of cultural surprises and new perspectives waiting to be discovered. For any ESL teacher living in China, the first few months can be filled with memorable lessons, unexpected moments, and exciting adventures. I’m certain that as I spend more time living here, I’ll find more that surprises me as an ESL teacher in China.