Mind The (Cultural) Gap

By Editorial Team

The Chinese culture is built on many superstitions so here is a list of items of what not to give for Chinese New Year.

Celebrating Chinese New Year with Chinese friends is a brilliant idea—fireworks, food, and festivities! That said, the cultural gap can be as wide as the Great Wall. Here’s your cheeky guide to 7 gifts to avoid, along with the superstitions that make them a total no-no. 

Hats — Mourning Madness
Hats, particularly green ones, are a gifting minefield. A green hat implies infidelity, and any hat can remind folks of mourning traditions. Fancy being the bearer of grief? Didn’t think so.

Black or White Gifts — Funeral Chic?
Black and white are fine for minimalist decor, but in Chinese culture, they scream “funeral.” Choose to go with red—lucky, festive, and the colour of ang pau packets.

Cut Flowers — For Funeral Fans Only
Flowers are lovely—except when they’re cut. White or yellow chrysanthemums? Those are reserved for funerals. Best not to deliver an unwelcome floral faux pas.



Mirrors — Who’s Afraid of Ghosts?
Mirrors are rumoured to attract ghosts, and breaking one is bad luck across cultures. Play it safe: let people admire themselves in their own mirror.

Shoes — Kicking Bad Vibes Around
Shoes are seen as unlucky because they’re “stepped on” and the word sounds like “evil.” Gifting shoes says, “Here, have some bad luck.” Charming.

Anything with ‘4’ — Deathly Unlucky
The number four sounds like “death” in Chinese. Avoid anything in sets of four or with the dreaded digit. Even hotel elevators skip the fourth floor—take the hint.

Clocks or Watches — Time’s Up!
A clock or watch is the ultimate no-no. In Chinese, gifting a clock sounds like attending a funeral. Plus, it symbolises time running out—a cheerful thought for anyone, especially the elderly.

So, there you have it—seven things to absolutely not give this Chinese New Year. Stick to safe bets like oranges, tea, or red envelopes stuffed with cash. Your friends will thank you, and you’ll avoid being the person who brought flowers to the party. Happy Chinese New Year, and may your gifting game be strong!