Ideal Chinese Gifts for Children
As a country full of ancient traditions and rich cultural heritage, China offers a wide variety of gift options, suitable for people of all ages. For children, Chinese gifts not only represent a unique culture, but also bring them fun and inspiration. In this article, we will explore some Chinese gifts suitable for children and explain why they are the ideal choice.
Traditional Chinese Dolls
Traditional Chinese dolls can be easily found in many museum stores and wholesale markets. Additionally, they are a popular souvenir in tourist hotspots, especially in Beijing, famous for its meticulously crafted silk dolls. These dolls, which have significant historical value, have been prized for over a thousand years, dating back to the Song Dynasty.
The prices of these dolls can vary depending on the type of silk used, ranging from 200 to 600 RMB or even more. The Silk Museum in Beijing has a shop that offers a wide selection of these dolls, as do most tourist places. These elegant figures represent traditional Chinese men and women, as well as characters from ancient legends and fables. Each of them has its own fascinating history, so don't hesitate to ask your guide about their origin and meaning.
Chinese Giant Panda Doll
If you are traveling with your children to Chengdu to visit the pandas, you definitely cannot pass up the opportunity to take home an adorable stuffed giant panda as a souvenir of this unique experience. In addition to being famous for its panda base, Chengdu is a vibrant and bustling city that captivates the little ones. Stuffed panda bears are available throughout the country, in tourist locations and at wholesale toy markets.
Chinese Kites
Children love kites. Those found in China are especially special, with more variety of colors and shapes than those from any other part of the world. Butterfly and dragon motifs are very common on Chinese kites. The places where they can be found in greatest quantity are major theme parks, picnic areas, and zoos throughout the country. Weifang, Shandong Province, is a city well known for its handcrafted kites, and is also the site of the International Kite Festival each year in April. Weifang kites come in every shape and size imaginable, including pigeons, tigers, goldfish, frogs and various legendary figures, each with their own story.
Embroidered Silk Shoes
Embroidered silk shoes are adorable little handmade shoes for children. It is common to find shoes that are shaped like a tiger, since this animal is considered a symbol of good luck for babies in China. The tiger is believed to protect the child from evil spirits. If you're planning a baby shower, there's no cuter, more meaningful gift than these shoes. In addition to tiger shoes, there are also other decorative shoes available, such as those in the shape of a butterfly, panda, and many more.
Chinese Opera Masks
Chinese opera masks are dramatic and very colorful pieces that capture the attention of any child. Not only do they stimulate little ones' imaginations, but they are also great toys that teach them how to tell stories, so it is useful to know a little about the history behind these masks. They are easier to find in Beijing than in other cities, and represent the rich tradition of Chinese opera that dates back to the ancient Tang dynasty. Plus, these masks inspire kids to create their own versions.
Beautiful Silk Qipao
Beautiful silk Qipaos are beautiful traditional dresses for women, recognized by their Chinese collar and side slits. They are very easy to find and are one of the most popular gifts for girls. With a wide variety of silk options, these dresses are charming and tempting, encouraging you to purchase one. Stores that sell mini qipaos may also offer silk pajamas for young children. The best option is to buy them in cities rather than in airport stores, where prices are usually considerably higher. It is even possible to get them handmade to order. Any girl would fall in love with her first delicately crafted qipao.
Chinese Kung Fu Suits
Chinese Kung Fu suits are part of the Chinese martial art known as Kung Fu or gongfu, which has its roots in this country for centuries. Hollywood introduced Kung Fu to the world, and many children dream of being the next Bruce Lee. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to witness a Kung Fu show, purchasing a costume for the children may be a good idea. These suits can be found at wholesale markets as well as tourist shops where you are also likely to find qipaos, as mentioned above.
Chinese Paper Cutting Illustration
Chinese cut paper illustrations are truly delicate works of art that can be found in the most elegant tourist places, such as Tianzifang in Shanghai, Qibao water city, Sanlitun in Beijing, among others. These handmade creations are sure to catch your children's attention and spark their interest in paper art. Chinese paper cutting is the first type of paper art known to mankind, invented during the Han Dynasty after the invention of paper. It is a highly appreciated, complex art and makes a beautiful gift.
