One, How to Deal with Street Vendors?
- Distinguish Legality and Product Quality
- Many street vendors in China are individual operators, but it’s important to differentiate between legal stalls (usually with fixed locations or unified identification) and mobile vendors.
- Common products include snacks (such as pancakes, candied haws), handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's recommended to prioritize stalls with longer queues or frequented by locals, which often indicate good reputations.
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Beware of counterfeit goods (like "brand-name" watches, jewelry), and avoid purchasing electronics or high-priced items with unclear origins.
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Price Negotiation and Payment Methods
- Goods sold by street vendors are usually negotiable, especially handicrafts or items without clearly marked prices. Suggest asking for the price first, then attempting to bargain at about half the initial offer; the final price depends on the actual value of the product.
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Payment methods are primarily cash (RMB), though some stalls support WeChat/Alipay (requires binding a Chinese bank card or using the international version). If paying in cash, prepare small bills (such as 1 yuan, 5 yuan, 10 yuan).
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Precautions and Pitfall Avoidance
- Avoid accepting "free trials" or "gifts," as some vendors may later demand high fees.
- When buying food, observe hygiene conditions (such as whether gloves are worn, if ingredients are fresh).
- If confronted with harassment or forced sales, politely but firmly say "Thank you, no need" (Xièxie, bù xūyào), and leave quickly. Contact nearby police (dial 110) or scenic area managers if necessary.
Two, How to Handle Photo Requests?
- When Being Asked to Take Photos
- In some tourist areas in China (such as ethnic minority settlements, remote scenic spots), tourists may be asked by locals to take photos together. This is generally out of friendliness or curiosity, especially towards Western visitors.
- Confirm Before Agreeing: Ask the person’s intent (if it’s for commercial use) and pay attention to personal privacy safety. Avoid handing over your phone/camera to strangers for shooting.
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Polite Refusal: If unwilling to take photos, you can smile and wave while saying “Sorry, I’m in a hurry” (Bù hǎoyìsi, gǎn shíjiān).
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Etiquette When Requesting Photos Yourself
- Before photographing locals (especially elders or ethnic minorities), obtain their consent (you can ask in gestures or simple Chinese: “Can I take a photo?” Kěyǐ pāizhào ma?).
- Some scenic spots (such as temples, museums) prohibit the use of flashlights or tripods, so follow the rules.
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If the other party requests payment (common among performers wearing traditional costumes within scenic areas), confirm the amount beforehand.
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Safety and Privacy Protection
- Avoid randomly photographing soldiers, police officers, or government facilities on the street (it may involve legal issues).
- Safeguard your photography equipment, being cautious of theft in crowded places (such as night markets, subway stations).
Three, General Suggestions
- Stay Alert and Polite: Most street interactions in China are friendly, but beware of a few unscrupulous vendors.
- Prepare Small Change: Some vendors do not accept large bills (such as 100 yuan), so exchange them in advance at convenience stores.
- Use Translation Tools: Download Google Translate or use the “Scan” function on WeChat to assist communication.
- Record Key Information: In case of disputes, record the stall location, take photos for evidence, and contact the tourism complaint hotline (12301).
