Gift-Giving Etiquette in China: Avoid These Awkward Mistakes

Giving gifts in China can strengthen friendships, business relationships, and family bonds.

But here’s the tricky part: the wrong gift can create embarrassment or even offense. For foreigners, the challenge is knowing what‘s appropriate, how to present it, and what cultural “red flags” to avoid.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to navigating Chinese gift-giving etiquette.

1. Safe and Popular Gift Choices

Some gifts are always safe and appreciated: food, tea, fruit, or small souvenirs from your home country.

Useful phrases:

• Zhè shì gěi nǐ de.

            这是给你的.

           This is for you.

• Xī wàng nǐ xǐ huān.

           希望你喜欢.

           I hope you like it.

Cultural tip: Present the gift with both hands — it shows respect.

2. Avoid Taboo Gifts

Some items carry unlucky meanings in Chinese culture.

❌ Clocks (钟 zhōng) — sounds like “end” or “death.”

❌ Umbrellas (伞 sǎn) — sounds like “separation.”

❌ Sharp objects (knives, scissors) — symbolize cutting relationships.

Useful phrases (to politely decline if you receive these):

• Tài kè qì le!

           太客气了!

           That’s too kind of you!

• Zhēn de bú yòng, xiè xiè.

           真的不用，谢谢.

           Really, no need, thank you.

3. Numbers Matter

In Chinese culture, numbers have symbolic meanings:

✅ 8 (bā) sounds like wealth (发 fā).

✅ 6 (liù) means smooth or lucky.

❌ 4 (sì) sounds like death (死 sǐ).

Pro tip: If you give money (like in a red envelope), avoid “4” and choose “6” or “8.”

4. How to Give the Gift

• Always use both hands to offer and receive gifts.
• Don’t be surprised if the person doesn’t open it right away — opening in front of you may be seen as impolite.
• Wrap gifts in red or gold if possible (lucky colors). Avoid white or black wrapping (funeral colors).

Useful phrases:

• Qǐng shōu xià.

           请收下.

            Please accept this.

• Xiǎo yì si.

          小意思.

          Just a small token.

5. Business vs. Personal Context

In business: gifts are usually modest and symbolize respect, not bribes. Think: tea, local specialties, or a book.

In personal life: gifts can be more personal, like snacks, fruit, or a bottle of wine when visiting someone‘s home.

Useful phrases:

• Dài diǎn lǐ wù gěi nín.

           带点礼物给您.

           I brought a small gift for you.

• Xiè xiè nǐ de zhāo dài.

           谢谢你的招待.

           Thank you for your hospitality.

Mastering these small details will help you show respect, avoid awkward moments, and build stronger connections.

Want to Master Chinese Culture and Language Together?

At eChineseLearning, our native teachers don’t just teach you grammar — they also guide you through the hidden cultural rules, like gift-giving etiquette, greetings, and table manners. That way, you sound natural and act appropriately in real-life situations.

Try your free 1-on-1 trial class today and learn the Chinese words and cultural skills that make every interaction smoother — from family visits to business dinners.

Quiz: Which of these is the worst gift to bring when visiting a Chinese friend’s home?

A. A box of fruit 🍎

B. A tea set 🍵

C. An umbrella ☂️

👉 Comment your answer below!