---
title: "Xiangqi Etiquette: What Is and Is Not Rude · Xiangqi Master"
description: "Slapping pieces is normal, announcing check is not expected, and kibitzing is fine in park play but banned in rated games."
url: https://xiangqimaster.com/blog/what-is-xiangqi-etiquette
updated: 2026-09-22
source: Xiangqi Master (https://xiangqimaster.com)
license: CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
---

# What is xiangqi etiquette?

These answers restate the rules implemented by our open-source engine, which follows the WXF laws and is regression-tested against the official 110-diagram repetition casebook. Where an answer refers to a specific position, that position lives on the linked reference page, where the build verifies it against the engine before publishing.

> Direct answer
>
> Less formal than chess in casual play. **Slapping a piece down is normal** and not aggressive. **Announcing check is not expected** and is avoided in serious play. **Kibitzing** — spectators offering advice — is ordinary in the park and firmly banned in rated games.

## Formal play

Touch-move applies, the clock is used, silence is expected, and an arbiter settles disputes. Illegal moves are penalised. Repetition adjudication is a real part of arbitration, so knowing those rules matters more than it would in chess.

## Casual play

Takebacks are common, advice is constant, and rematches are immediate. If you are visiting a park board, watch a game or two first — some play for small stakes, and the local conventions are easier to absorb by watching than by asking.

## Related questions

Should I say 'check'?

No, and in serious play you should not.

Is offering a draw repeatedly rude?

Yes, and in formal play it can be penalised as distraction. Offer once.

## Related xiangqi resources

Xiangqi questions answered

Every question on this site, in one index

Perpetual check and chase

Repetition is adjudicated, not automatically drawn

Play xiangqi

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## Try it on a real board

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