Cherished Mementos from the Middle Kingdom
As your adventure in China draws to a close, you find yourself seeking the ultimate keepsakes to capture the essence of your journey. Our curated selection ensures you'll return with souvenirs that are bound to wow your loved ones back home.
Celebrating Chinese Winemaking
The burgeoning reputation of Chinese wines offers a fabulous gifting choice. Award-winning vineyards like Grace Vineyards and Helan Mountain are producing vintages that surprise and delight connoisseurs globally. Imagine the delight in gifting a bottle from such esteemed wineries.
For those with a taste for spirits, baijiu is the signature drink of China - a potent distilled beverage with a visceral kick, akin to vodka but uniquely flavorful. If you venture for the top-shelf varieties like Moutai or Wuliangye, prepare for a lavish expenditure, as they command a high price for their esteemed quality.
Tea: China's Liquid History
Nothing symbolizes China more than its tea, a marvel discovered over 4000 years ago. From the robust black teas to the delicate white leaves, every variety offers a sip of history. For an immersive experience, visit a specialist teahouse where you can taste and compare the blends. The Wu Yu Tai chain is an accessible option, but for more variety explore the Maliandao Tea Market in Beijing or Tianshan Tea Market in Shanghai.
The Art of Paper Cuttings
Step into the world of jianzhi, a paper-cutting art form with more than a millennium of history. Bright-red paper cuttings, traditionally adorning Chinese homes, can be effortlessly packed and make for beautiful, light souvenirs.
The Jade Legacy
Jade is the very emblem of Chinese luxury, signifying noble qualities and believed to endow luck and health. Buying authentic, high-quality jade could be a challenge, but with guidance from your local contacts, you can acquire pendants or statues that are culturally and aesthetically valuable.
Vibrant Propaganda Posters
Mao-era propaganda posters are unique gifts for those with an interest in art and history. While originals are rare, high-quality reproductions can still capture the era's essence. The Panjiayuan Antiques Market in Beijing is renowned for such finds.
The Silk Souvenir
China's legacy of silk is renowned worldwide. Although pricey, smaller silk items make for sophisticated and portable gifts. To ensure authenticity, purchase from reputable sellers and be skeptical of deals that seem improbably economical. The historical city of Suzhou is renowned for its silk production, making it an ideal place to acquire these luxurious fabrics.
