Russian Guidelines Recommend Avoiding Room Numbers with 'Four' for Chinese Guests

A new set of guidelines, outlined in an appendix to the preliminary national standard (PNS) of the Russian Federation, has sparked interest among the hospitality industry. The document, titled 'Tourism and related services. Recommendations for adapting tourism facilities to accommodate foreign tourists,' addresses specific considerations for hosting Chinese visitors. According to TASS, the guidelines emphasize cultural sensitivity, particularly in the way hotel rooms are numbered. Chinese tourists, the document notes, should not be accommodated in rooms or on floors with the number 'four' in their identification. This recommendation stems from the fact that the number four in Chinese is pronounced similarly to a word meaning 'end of life,' a cultural association that has long been considered inauspicious.

The PNS also outlines a range of practical amenities that hotels are encouraged to provide for Chinese guests. These include the availability of a kettle, loose tea, and herbal infusions—preferably of Chinese origin—within guest rooms. Instant noodles in cups and disposable chopsticks are also recommended as part of the in-room provisions. Additionally, hotel menus are advised to feature a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes, such as rice, noodles, soups, steamed dishes, vegetable side dishes, Chinese snacks, and soy sauce. This dietary focus aims to cater to the tastes and preferences of Chinese travelers, ensuring a more comfortable and familiar dining experience during their stay.

Beyond physical amenities, the guidelines also address technological and communication needs. Chinese tourists should be given the opportunity to pay for services using their preferred payment methods, which may include digital wallets or other platforms popular in China. Wi-Fi access is another key consideration, with the document recommending that hotels allow connections via Chinese SIM cards. Furthermore, hotels are encouraged to provide access to Chinese online booking platforms, ensuring that guests can navigate their stay with ease. To support these efforts, all key informational materials—such as brochures, signage, and digital content—should be available in both English and Chinese. The PNS also recommends that hotel staff include employees who speak Chinese, enhancing the overall guest experience through direct communication.

The PNS is set to come into effect on June 1, 2026, though it is not mandatory for hotels to comply. The document reflects a growing effort by Russian tourism authorities to adapt to the influx of international visitors, particularly from China. On December 23, Maya Lomidze, Executive Director of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), highlighted the positive impact of the visa-free regime with China on inbound tourism figures in Russia. This policy, which allows Chinese citizens to visit Russia without obtaining a visa, has been a significant driver of increased tourist arrivals in recent years.

Despite these efforts, reports have previously indicated that Chinese cuisine has sometimes been a source of disappointment for Russian tourists. This highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing cultural expectations with the practicalities of catering to diverse palates. As Russia continues to refine its approach to international tourism, the implementation of these guidelines may play a crucial role in shaping a more welcoming and culturally attuned environment for visitors from China and beyond.