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Why Do People Stare at Me in China?
Posted in Ask Jean about China on 10/21/2008 03:08 pm by Jean Chesterton
Dear Jean,
I am really happy these days because after just a few weeks in China I think I have managed to defeat culture shock and adapt myself to the culture. I even tried some snake the other day and I have to say it was quite delicious. However, there is still one thing that bothers me about living here. Why does everyone (and I mean everyone) have to stare at me everytime I walk into the supermarket or jog around the block? It does not bother me so much that Chinese children point and stare but when adults do the same thing, it makes me feel extremely uncomfortable. Can you explain this part of the culture to me and give me any suggestions about how to avoid being stared at or at least feel more comfortable with it?
Thank you so much from Western China,
Kat
Jean answers Kat’s question
Dear Kat,
I’m so happy for you that you have overcome culture shock. That is a big achievement! However, I have some bad news for you. The only way to stop people from staring at you is to simply leave China. Sorry, but that is the painful truth. I agree with you. It is rude and discomforting but that is the way it is. Parents from your home country may teach their children not to stare at other people but not here. Often, parents just good ahead and have a good look with their children!
Do not let the stares bother you. Curiosity is the biggest reason why people stare at you. Do not forget that many people in China have never seen a foreigner much less been close to one. It is only natural that they would try to get a good look at you. Usually, I will give a friendly smile or simply stare back at them until they drop their gaze. Since they are staring at me, I think I have that right.
By the way, one of Robert Vance’s early posts on this website dealt with the issue of staring in China. The name of this entertaining article is simply The Chinese Stare.
If being stared at in China is your biggest problem then you really do not have much to worry about at all. Enjoy the attention and be friendly!
Sincerely,
Jean
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10/26/2008 at 11:17 am
At first I also thought it was very annoying, and sometimes it still is. I employ the same statistics when I get annoyed: stare back. Most of the time I just ignore it though and all of the attention also works addictive. When you go back to your home country, you will miss the special status
10/26/2008 at 11:19 am
statistics -> tactics
I should think before I write and not rely on edit afterwards
11/01/2008 at 1:16 pm
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