Kissing in China is generally acceptable, but the appropriateness depends heavily on the context, location, and the people involved. Public displays of affection, while becoming more common, are still viewed with more reserve than in many Western cultures.
Here's a breakdown:
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Public Kissing: While attitudes are evolving, overtly passionate kissing in public might still draw stares, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Quick, discreet pecks are generally fine, especially among younger generations.
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Private Settings: In private settings, such as homes or secluded areas, kissing is perfectly acceptable and considered a normal expression of affection between partners.
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Cultural Nuances: Historically, public displays of affection were less common in China. The increasing openness is linked to modernization and greater exposure to Western cultures. However, traditional values still hold influence.
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Age and Relationship Status: Kissing is generally more acceptable between married couples or those in established relationships. For younger, unmarried couples, discretion is often practiced out of respect for elders and social norms.
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Regional Differences: Larger, more cosmopolitan cities like Shanghai and Beijing tend to be more accepting of public displays of affection than smaller, more conservative areas.
In conclusion, while kissing is generally OK in China, exercising discretion and being mindful of the context and cultural norms is advisable. It's always best to err on the side of caution and observe the behavior of locals to gauge what is considered appropriate.
