Traditionally in China, the time from noon to two PM is a break time. In Chinese it’s called (literally) “noon rest.” That time includes both eating lunch and taking a nap. It used to be that most every office closed totally for that two hours, but things are changing. Now banks remain open through the “rest time”. But we’ve learned not to expect the same service during “noon rest” that you would get earlier or later in the day. The few employees at work at that time are apt to be cranky. And although the business is open, it is very likely that the particular individual who you need to help you is not at work but is, in fact, having a rest. So we’ve learned that for the most part, getting things done needs to be done before or after “noon rest.”
Street vendors like this lady don’t have the luxury of closing shop. She’ll eat right beside her wares (slippers) and possibly doze a bit seated upright.
This picture is part of my 100 Strangers Project.
Just like anywhere, workers like to grab a quick meal during their “noon rest.” These are some ready made dishes, just waiting for the noon rush.
It’s something akin to the “blue plate special.” You can get a bole of rice and three vegetable choices for a set price.
Often these types of lunch deals are set up in ugly metal serving trays, cafeteria style. I think the blue and white plates make it look much more attractive!
More Posts Like This One:
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Yummy! I’m on a low carb diet so those veggies look terrific. I need to go look up some Chinese recipes.
That afternoon nap seems so practical. When I worked outside the home, I could have really used this!
Wow, that food looks incredible!
I think a noon rest should be a part of our culture. Just think how much more pleasant everyone would be if they were able to have a real lunch and a little siesta instead of grabbing a quick bite at their desk!
Ooh – I would get so fat living in China!! Yummy! Mind you, then I might need to go to the dentist too, and I do not want my teeth forming the ridge peak of a pagoda, I do not.
I would so love to have noon rest in my home!
I love your collage; it’s very nice!
Tracy
We’ve lived in two different places in China now – way down south in Hainan, and now up north in Shenyang. I’ve found that the nap time isn’t near as popular up here. In Hainan, almost everyone took afternoon naps – even the college was very quiet until about 3. But up here in the north, things go on as usual, and then many shops close around 3 or 4! So it must depend on the heat and sun. The midday sun and heat was unbearable in the summer in Hainan!
Hey, Katie! You are so right. China is HUGE, and regional difference are also huge! I’ve found that more developed cities tend to skip the rest time, and the more traditional, “backward” cities tend to keep it.
Thanks so much for sharing your own experiences. I do hope that people know that’s all I’m sharing — my OWN experiences. (What else could I share?) Actual mileage may very.