Culture Insider: Cultural taboos from nine countries

China (This one is from China Daily BBS)

Don't wear a green hat. In Chinese, the words for "wearing a green hat" sound similar to the word for "cuckold."

Avoid giving white flowers to your host - in particular yellow or white Chrysanthemums or any white flowers. White flowers are associated with funerals – and with poverty and sorrow. Similarly - never give gifts wrapped in white paper.

Never give a clock as a present. In Chinese "sending a clock (送鐘)" sounds similar with "to pay one's last respects (送終)".

Never leave your chopsticks sticking up in a bowl at the end of a meal. This is what people do at shrines when offering incense to their ancestors.

The high-profile philanthropist Chen Guangbiao organizes a charity activity in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, Oct 10, 2012. [Photo/CFP]

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