The Elevator Ritual

Hong Kong boasts one of the most intriguing elevator etiquettes. When riding in an elevator, it’s customary for the person closest to the control panel to take charge of operating it, regardless of whether they are getting off soon or not. This unofficial position is humorously referred to as the “elevator captain”. The captain must ask which floors other passengers are going to and press the corresponding buttons. They are also expected to hold the door open button to ensure everyone gets off at their respective floors safely. This quirky tradition emphasizes the city’s communal spirit and efficiency.

Community Involvement: This practice not only streamlines the process but also sparks interactions among passengers.

Unwritten Rules: No one discusses this rule; it is silently understood and followed by everyone.

Superstitious Building Numbers

In Hong Kong, the blend of traditional Chinese beliefs and modern living creates some humorous situations, especially concerning building numbers. It is common to find buildings without the fourth floor. As the number four sounds like ‘death’ in Cantonese, it’s often omitted in favor of more auspicious numbers. Interestingly, you might find buildings that jump directly from the third to the fifth floor.

Lucky Number Eight: The number eight, resembling the symbol for infinity, is considered extremely lucky and is often sought after in addresses and phone numbers.

Avoiding the Unlucky: Similarly, the number 14 is avoided as it sounds like ‘certain death’.

Yam Cha and Dim Sum

Yam Cha, which translates to “drink tea”, is a cherished tradition in Hong Kong involving drinking Chinese tea and enjoying dim sum. This practice is not just about eating; it’s a vibrant experience filled with a unique language known as ‘Dim Sum lingo’. Waiters shout and diners respond in what seems like a coded language to the uninitiated, creating a lively, albeit noisy, environment.

Tea Lid Tipping: If you need a tea refill, simply tilt the lid of the tea pot to signal the waiter. It’s an efficient and silent call for more tea.

Lazy Susan: The large turntable in the middle of the table, known as a Lazy Susan, makes sharing dishes easy and is a staple at any Yam Cha experience.

The Pineapple Bun with No Pineapple

One of Hong Kong’s most beloved pastries is the pineapple bun, known locally as ‘Bo Lo Bao’. Despite its name, the bun contains no pineapple. The name comes from its crusty top, which is sugary and golden-brown, resembling the texture of a pineapple. This amusing misnomer is a perfect example of the city’s playful relationship with food.

Butter Surprise: A popular way to enjoy this treat is with a thick slice of butter inserted into a warm bun, known locally as “Bo Lo Yau”.

Cultural Icon: The pineapple bun is such an integral part of Hong Kong culture that it has been proposed as a part of the city’s intangible cultural heritage.

Wet Market Haggling

Haggling in Hong Kong’s wet markets is not just a necessity; it’s an art form. These bustling markets, where locals buy fresh produce, meat, and seafood, are alive with vendors shouting prices and customers bargaining for the best deal. The atmosphere is charged with energy, and the fast-paced bargaining can seem like a chaotic dance to newcomers.

Price Dropping Technique: Vendors often quote higher prices initially, expecting customers to bargain down.

Local Interaction: This practice allows for lively interaction between vendors and customers, maintaining a sense of community and tradition.

Taxi Colors Code

Taxis in Hong Kong are not just vehicles; they are a lesson in regional geography. The color of a taxi indicates the areas it serves. Red taxis operate throughout most of Hong Kong, green taxis serve the New Territories, and blue taxis are found on Lantau Island. This color-coding system, while practical, often amuses tourists and newcomers who might be used to more uniform taxi fleets.

Learning Curve: Newcomers often learn about this system through amusing trial and error.

Efficient System: Despite the initial confusion, this system ensures efficient and area-specific transportation.

These funny cultural quirks make Hong Kong a fascinating place to explore, offering a blend of tradition, modernity, and a good dose of humor. Each aspect of life, from the way buildings are numbered to how tea is served, tells a story of a city that loves its traditions yet embraces the quirks that come with them.