In Chinese culture, especially in business and formal settings, having a clear and detailed 行程 (xíngchéng) is highly valued. It demonstrates preparedness, efficiency, and respect for other people's time. Arriving for a business meeting and presenting a well-thought-out 行程 shows that you are serious and organized. Let's compare 行程 (xíngchéng) to the English word “itinerary.” While they are very similar, 行程 often feels more concrete and comprehensive. An “itinerary” can sometimes be a loose list of flights and hotels. A 行程, however, often implies a more integrated schedule of transportation, meetings, meals, and activities. When a Chinese host asks for your 行程, they are asking for this complete picture so they can coordinate logistics and show proper hospitality. This reflects a cultural preference for planning and avoiding unexpected situations.
行程 (xíngchéng) is an extremely common word used in various contexts:
The term is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations without issue.
A common point of confusion for learners is distinguishing 行程 from other words related to “plan” or “schedule.”