Queuing & public space

Formal queue lines — marked lanes at train stations, banks, and airports — are generally respected and enforced, especially in larger cities where queuing culture has strengthened noticeably over the past couple of decades through public campaigns. In less formally managed settings, like boarding a bus or squeezing into a crowded market stall, people commonly move up by proximity rather than strict arrival order, more so in some regions and among older crowds than others; if you notice this happening around you, moving forward calmly claims your spot rather than waiting to be invited.

Personal space in crowded public settings — subways, markets, sidewalks — tends to be smaller than many learners expect. Some jostling, close following, or squeezing past without an explicit 'excuse me' is normal and isn't meant as rude; a light 不好意思 still smooths things over if you're the one doing the moving.

On escalators, standing habits vary by city and have shifted over time — in some places standing on one side and walking on the other is common, in others people simply spread across both sides, especially when it's busy; watch what locals around you are doing rather than assuming one universal rule applies everywhere.

On public transit, offering your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or parents with small children (让座) is a well-recognized courtesy, sometimes requested directly by a fellow passenger — 麻烦让一下座 — or simply gestured. Declining isn't inherently rude, but visibly ignoring a direct, polite request can draw quiet disapproval.