Giving Gifts in China: Traditions and Customs Info for Tourist and Backpackers

Asian countries are known for their gift-giving traditions. China is, perhaps, a more delicate location than others when it comes to gift giving, as their communist government tends to see any gift given to an official as a bribe. For backpackers, this usually isn't an issue, as any gift you offer will likely be to a family or individual that has expressed hospitality towards you. Offering someone a gift in return for a meal, a place to stay, or work, is a nice way to show that you appreciate it and that you are grateful for what they have offered you.

As with any country, there are rules and protocols surrounding what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to both the gift and the act of giving. Taking time to understand these customs and rules will not only help you avoid embarrassment when you find yourself in one of these situations, but will also, in the case of China, help you avoid trouble with the law.

The following is a general list of the rules and customs that are followed when giving gifts in China.

1: Offer gifts that are best used by everyone in a family, if that happens to be the group you are presenting the gift to. Simple and inexpensive gifts are the best, as highly expensive gifts may be awkward and refused. Things like pen sets, a small product of food (grains, rice, etc), or similar, non-personal items are fine.

2: Wrap the gift in wrapping paper. Take your time and do a neat job of it. Don't leave the gift in a shopping bag. The gift should be wrapped in a color that is appropriate for the occasion. For example, a normal, happy occasion would require 'red' paper, a funeral would require black and white, and a wedding is best with gold and silver.

3: Expect the gift to be refused two or three times before accepted. This is customary, as it shows that the receiver is not being greedy. You, the giver, should offer it again after each refusal until the person accepts. If, for some reason that person continues to refuse it several times, then stop offering, as they really do not want it, and may not be in a position to accept it.