This site explains a lot! http://middlekingdomlife.com/guide/dating-etiquette-sex-relationships-china.htm

Like Naclfish and Irina Xiang have already explained in the comment section, some Chinese males do expect some degree of AA when going out with a girl. If it is a date, I guess the males would probably pick up the tab more often. Your attempt to pitch in a little will be very much appreciated in most cases. Also, I guess Chinese guys are typically less outspoken and less proactive than their western counterparts. So you probably don't want to jump to conclusion that this guy doesn't like you simply he seems a bit reserved. Maybe he is simply shy. :) Certain degree of cultural shock may be experienced, especially if this is your first time dating a Chinese boy. Anyway, relax and I am sure it would be nice and fun!

Usually, guys always pay the bill for their girls. That's the main custom in Chinese dating culture, and that's the culture I don't like most. Remeber, you have to "refuse" his generous! Otherwise, you will be considered as "greedy". For girls, just be nice and polite, don't be picky, and please be there on time! Guys won't mind if the girls are late about 10 - 15 mins, but they do mind if girls are late about one hour something. But, you will never know because usually guys won't show their disappointment on their face. And let God do the rest I think, coz matching is the most bond among a relationship or a marriage. Dating customs? Not a big deal! lol

There aren't any customs you have to obey, I think. Somebody say boys always pay, but sometimes girls pay as well, especially when it's the girl who invited the boy out. And nowadays young people also hang out without paying for others, which we call it "AA" Algebraic Average.

When I was in China, I was told that dating customs were more formal than those in the west.