What Makes a Gift Lucky in Chinese Culture?

In Chinese culture, giving and receiving gifts is a delicate art filled with traditions and hidden meanings. If you’re planning to give a gift to a Chinese friend, here are some important things you should know!

Saying “No” Might Mean “Yes”

When you offer a gift in China, the other person might refuse it once, twice, or even three times before accepting it. This isn’t because they don’t like your present—it’s a polite way to show modesty.

Watch Out for Sharp Objects

Gifts like scissors, knives, or anything sharp are not recommended. These items are believed to “cut” the relationship between the giver and receiver, which is something everyone wants to avoid.

Lucky Numbers Make Great Gifts

The number eight (八, bā) sounds like the word for wealth or fortune in Chinese. Giving eight of something—like eight pencils or eight cookies—is considered very lucky!

But be careful with the number four (四, sì). It sounds similar to the word for “death” in Chinese and is considered unlucky. So it’s best to avoid giving four of anything.

Always Use Two Hands

When giving or receiving a gift, using both hands shows respect and care. It’s a polite and thoughtful gesture that people in China really appreciate.

Don’t Expect Gifts to Be Opened Right Away

If your friend tucks the gift away without opening it, don’t worry—it’s not because they didn’t like it! In Chinese culture, opening gifts in front of others can be seen as impolite or greedy. Most people wait until later to open presents.

Explore Culture While Learning the Language

Gift-giving traditions are just one small part of Chinese culture. Kids who are learning Mandarin can have even more fun when they explore these customs while practicing vocabulary. With Dinolingo, children can learn Mandarin Chinese through games, songs, and stories that bring cultural details like this to life. It’s an easy, joyful way to discover both the language and the world it belongs to.