In Western culture, “religion” often implies a single, exclusive affiliation (e.g., one is either Christian or Jewish, but not both). In China, the concept is historically more syncretic and blended. The “Three Teachings” (三教, Sān jiào) — Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism — have coexisted and influenced each other for centuries. Many people might adopt Confucian principles for social ethics, engage in Taoist wellness practices, and visit a Buddhist temple for blessings, all without seeing a contradiction. They aren't necessarily “members” of these religions in the Western sense. Therefore, 宗教 (zōngjiào) can feel like a more formal, almost academic category. When someone in China says they have “no religion” (没有宗教, méiyǒu zōngjiào), it might mean they don't adhere to one of the state-recognized organized religions. However, they may still participate in ancestor worship, hold deep spiritual or philosophical beliefs (信仰, xìnyǎng), or follow folk traditions, which are all integral parts of the cultural fabric. This is different from the Western idea of an “atheist” or “agnostic,” which often implies a rejection of all spiritual practices. In China, practice and philosophy are often separate from formal religious identity.
宗教 (zōngjiào) is used in formal and neutral contexts. You'll see it in news reports, academic discussions, and official documents.
The term itself is neutral, but discussions about it can be sensitive depending on the political or social context.