Human race Quote by Larry Herzberg
““China, talking about restrooms is very important, especially when seconds count. Memorize these characters: (Nán) is male, (Nǚ) is female. Often they may be more prominently displayed than the words “Men” or “Women” or even the familiar gender-specific silhouettes we are accustomed to seeing. Not to worry, however, if you can’t read the Chinese characters for the two gender choices. The general rule of thumb in almost all of China is “men left, women right,” meaning that the men’s restroom will be on the left-hand side and women’s on the right. Only in the areas populated primarily by minority peoples is the opposite true. If you’re female, and at least half the human race is of that persuasion, then you have a special treat in store at some Chinese airport restrooms outside of the largest cities like Beijing and Shanghai. You may walk into one of the lovely modern stalls provided for you. Lulled into a sense of security and familiarity by such a modern-looking restroom so far from home, you don’t even think to check to see if there is any toilet paper in the stall. That’s because in America there are always several giant-sized rolls in industrial-looking acrylic dispensers.””
About This Quote
Source Travel Guide: China Airport Restroom Etiquette, 2020
In China, restroom signs use characters for male and female, and the general rule is men on the left, women on the right, with variations in minority regions. Travelers should be aware of these conventions and check for amenities like toilet paper.
In simple terms: Chinese restrooms use gender characters and left‑right placement; check supplies.
Observe signage and verify amenities before use.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- airport navigation
- public restroom use
- travel preparation
- language barriers
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you adapt to unfamiliar signage?
- What steps can you take to ensure comfort in foreign facilities?
Minority areas may reverse the left‑right rule, causing confusion.