When to give red envelopes, how much to put in, and number taboos. Amount guides for weddings, Spring Festival, and birthdays. 8 is lucky, 4 is death — these details matter enormously.
Red envelopes (hongbao, 红包) are the standard way to give money as a gift in China — for weddings, Spring Festival, birthdays, and other occasions. The rules around amounts, timing, and presentation are specific and culturally loaded. Digital red envelopes via WeChat have become hugely popular, but physical red envelopes are still expected for formal occasions.
Red envelope conventions matter at weddings (always), Spring Festival (for children, elders, and employees), milestone birthdays for elders (60th, 70th, 80th), and hospital visits (for the patient). If you're unsure about amounts, ask a Chinese colleague or friend.
What to give and what to avoid. Color taboos (white/black = funerals), number superstitions (4 = death), and the art of refusing three times before accepting.
Handshake or nod? How to address people? Business card exchange etiquette. Chinese people rarely hug or cheek-kiss. Using title + surname is the safest form of address in professional settings.
Understanding 'face' (mianzi) is the key to Chinese interpersonal relationships. Never criticize publicly, never refuse directly, always give people an exit path. Protecting someone's face matters more than proving you're right.
If you're unsure about a specific cultural situation, reach out for practical advice tailored to your trip.