Gift Ideas

Gift-giving (送禮 - sòng lǐ) in Taiwan is a significant and meaningful practice, rooted in respect, appreciation, and the expression of well-wishes (祝福 - zhù fú). Whether exchanging gifts with family, friends, or significant others, each occasion carries its own set of traditions and customs. This guide explores the various aspects of gifting in Taiwan, including common gift ideas, the appropriate gifts for different relationships, and how gifts vary according to age and specific festivals or holidays. When presenting a gift, the way it is given, the words you say, and the context all play an important role in showing respect and thoughtfulness.

Common Gifts

When choosing gifts, it's always a good idea to consult a parent, guardian, or close family member to ensure the gift is thoughtful, age-appropriate, and aligns with the recipient's preferences.

Gifts for Family

• Red Envelopes (紅包, Hóngbāo):

  The most common family gift, especially for children or elders. A red envelope with money symbolizes good luck and prosperity. When giving, it's customary to offer the envelope with both hands and wish the recipient health and wealth. The amount should avoid the number four, as it is considered unlucky.

• Health Supplements:

  Elderly family members often receive gifts such as ginseng (人參, Rénshēn), vitamins, or other health-related products as a sign of care for their well-being. Presenting these gifts with a respectful bow and offering words of good health will enhance the gesture.

• Fruit Baskets (水果籃, Shuǐguǒ Lán):

  Fruit baskets, especially with citrus fruits like oranges (橙, Chéng), are commonly given for their symbolism of wealth and good luck. These should be offered with a warm, cheerful greeting, wishing the recipient good fortune.

Gifts for Friends

• Tea (茶, Chá):

  A well-packaged tea set, typically oolong or jasmine, is a traditional and appreciated gift. When presenting tea, it is important to offer it with both hands while expressing appreciation for the recipient's friendship and wishing them tranquility and well-being.

• Local Specialty Foods:

  Taiwan has a wide variety of snacks and food items, such as pineapple cakes (鳳梨酥, Fènglí Sū), which are popular gifts. These are typically presented with a smile and the words, "I hope you enjoy this taste of Taiwan."

• Cultural Crafts:

  Handcrafted items such as pottery, local artwork, or bamboo products make unique gifts. Present these with pride, sharing the story of the craft, and wishing the recipient a prosperous future.

Gifts for Significant Others

• Jewelry:

  Romantic gifts like necklaces, bracelets, or rings are often exchanged to symbolize love and commitment. It is important to present these gifts with care and express heartfelt words, reinforcing your affection and devotion.

• Perfume (香水, Xiāngshuǐ):

  Perfume is a thoughtful gift that shows affection, often accompanied by flowers or chocolates. Present it with a tender smile and say something like, "This is to remind you of my love every day."

• Flowers (花, Huā):

  Roses (玫瑰花, Méiguīhuā) are the most common choice for lovers, particularly on special occasions like Valentine's Day. Offering a bouquet with a sincere compliment or romantic words makes the gesture more meaningful.

Age Considerations

• Children:

  For young children, parents and relatives often give toys, educational items, or red envelopes during special occasions like Lunar New Year and birthdays. When giving gifts, saying something like, "I hope this brings you joy and helps you grow" is a kind gesture.

• Young Adults:

  Teenagers and young adults typically receive gifts like electronics, books, fashion accessories, or skincare products. You may say, "I hope this helps you in your studies or keeps you looking great".

• Elderly:

  For the elderly, gifts tend to be more practical or health-oriented, such as herbal remedies, health supplements, or comfortable household items. Present these gifts with a bow or slight gesture of respect and wish them long life and health.

Gifts for Holidays & Special Occasions

Taiwan has many festivals and holidays, each offering unique opportunities for gift-giving. The customs vary significantly, and understanding these traditions is important for choosing the right gift.

Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year (農曆新年, Nónglì Xīnnián) is the most important holiday in Taiwan, marked by family reunions and various traditional customs. When gifting, it's important to wish good luck, prosperity, and health to the recipient.

• Red Envelopes (紅包, Hóngbāo):

  This is the most popular gift during Lunar New Year, particularly for children and unmarried relatives. The amount inside should avoid the number four, as it's considered unlucky. When presenting the envelope, offer it with both hands and say, "Wishing you a prosperous New Year!" (祝你新年快樂，財源廣進- zhù nǐ xīnnián kuàilè, cáiyuán guǎng jìn!), or simply "Wishing you wealth and properity!" (恭喜發財!, gōngxǐ fācái!).

• Fruit Baskets (水果籃, Shuǐguǒ Lán):

  Citrus fruits like oranges are given as symbols of good fortune and prosperity. You may say, "May your year be full of blessings and wealth" while presenting the fruit basket.

• Health Gifts:

  Ginseng (人參, Rénshēn) or health supplements are often given to elderly relatives. While presenting these gifts, express well wishes for long-lasting health and strength.

• Tea (茶, Chá):

  Gifting high-quality tea is common, especially to those with whom one shares a close or professional relationship. Offer it with the words, "May this tea bring peace and relaxation to your year."

Mid-Autumn Festival

Celebrating the harvest and the full moon, the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節, Zhōngqiū Jié) is a time for family gatherings and sharing food. When offering gifts, express wishes for happiness and togetherness.

• Mooncakes (月餅, Yuèbǐng):

  The quintessential gift for this festival, mooncakes are exchanged among family, friends, and colleagues. They come in various fillings, from traditional lotus seed paste to more modern versions. Present the mooncakes with warm wishes for a full and joyful life.

• Pomelos (柚子, Yòuzi):

  The pomelo fruit, which symbolizes good luck and a prosperous life, is often gifted during this time. You may say, "May your life be as bright and full as the moon."

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day (情人節, Qíngrén Jié) is widely celebrated in Taiwan, particularly among younger couples. It's a day for romantic gestures and gifts. When presenting gifts, the focus is on affection and expressing love.

• Flowers (玫瑰花, Méiguīhuā):

  Roses are the most common flowers exchanged between lovers, symbolizing deep affection. Present them with a smile, saying, "For the one I love most."

• Chocolates (巧克力, Qiǎokèlì):

  A popular gift, often given along with flowers or as part of a romantic dinner. You could add, "Sweet as my love for you."

• Jewelry (珠寶, Zhūbǎo):

  Romantic gifts such as rings or necklaces are common among couples to celebrate their relationship. When presenting jewelry, express your feelings with, "This is a symbol of my lasting love."

Dragon Boat Festival

Also referred to as the Double Fifth Festival (端午節, Duānwǔ Jié) is marked by dragon boat races and eating zongzi (粽子), traditional rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves. Gifts are often shared to strengthen relationships.

• Zongzi (粽子, Zòngzi):

  These rice dumplings filled with meats or beans are often given as gifts, especially to elders or those who have helped during the year. Offer them with a phrase like, "May this bring you strength and good health."

• Herbal Sachets (香囊, Xiāngnáng):

  These small, fragrant sachets filled with herbs are worn to ward off evil spirits, and they make thoughtful gifts. You might say, "May this bring you peace and protection."

Christmas

While not a traditional Taiwanese holiday, Christmas (聖誕節, Shèngdàn Jié) is growing in popularity, especially among younger generations and in business settings. The presentation of gifts is accompanied by expressions of goodwill and joy.

• Gifts for Significant Others:

  Jewelry, perfumes, and personalized items are popular gifts for romantic partners. Present these with heartfelt words like, "For you, the most special person in my life."

• Gifts for Children:

  Toys, books, or educational gifts are commonly given to children during this holiday. When presenting them, say something like, "I hope this gift brings you joy and excitement."

• Decorative Items:

  People also gift Christmas-themed decorations, such as tree ornaments or candles. Present these with festive cheer, wishing the recipient a joyful holiday season.

Weddings

Weddings (婚禮, Hūnlǐ) in Taiwan are significant events, and gift-giving plays a central role in celebrating the couple's union. When offering wedding gifts, express your best wishes for their new life together.

• Red Envelopes (紅包, Hóngbāo):

  Monetary gifts are the most common form of wedding gift. The amount should be lucky, and it's usually a sum that avoids the number four. Present the envelope with warm words like, "Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and love".

• Household Items:

  Gifts such as kitchenware, bedding sets, or home appliances are practical and often given by close friends and family. Present these with the hope that they make the couple's new home more comfortable and joyful.

Other Special Occasions

• Birthdays (生日, Shēngrì):

  Birthdays in Taiwan are celebrated with various gifts depending on the age and preferences of the recipient. Common gifts for adults include wine, books, or gourmet food, while children may receive toys, games, or school-related items. Be sure to wish the recipient a happy year ahead when giving your gift.

• Teacher's Day (教師節, Jiàoshī Jié):

  Students often give gifts like flowers, fruit, or tea to their teachers. Small amounts of money in red envelopes may also be given as a gesture of appreciation. Present these with words of gratitude for their guidance and wisdom.

Red Envelope Dos and Don'ts

Quick Reference

For parents and elders

Most people give NT$6000-10,000 to parents, often choosing lucky numbers like 6600 or 8000. Young professionals may give NT$3600, based on income and work experience. For grandparents or in-laws, NT$3600-6000 is typical.

For children

Red envelope amounts for children rise with age. To avoid sibling jealousy, equal amounts are often given if there are multiple children.

• Elementary: NT$800-1200
• Junior High/High School: NT$1200-2600
• University: NT$2600-3600

For children of friends and relatives

For friends and relatives, amounts range from NT$200 to NT$800, depending on closeness. NT$200 is common for newborns or neighbors, while closer friends might receive more.

For pets

With pets being family members, many give NT$200 for a pet's share of the New Year's joy, helping cover extra pet food for the festive season.