Where to start with this enormous country? From the bustling markets of Beijing to the tea fields of Hangzhou, China is a treasure chest of history, craftsmanship, and symbolism.

Whether you’re looking for elegant tea sets, delicate silk, or a quirky panda souvenir, there’s something for every traveler. Here’s what I personally think you should buy in China to remember your trip by.

1. Chinese Tea

• Why pick this up: Tea is the heart of Chinese culture, and every region has its own signature flavor.
• What to look for: Longjing (Dragon Well) green tea from Hangzhou, Pu’er tea from Yunnan, or Oolong from Fujian.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥40–¥400 per tin, depending on quality.
• Where to find it: Local tea shops or dedicated tea markets.

2. Yixing Clay Teapots

• Why pick this up: These porous purple clay teapots enhance tea’s flavor over time.
• What to look for: Genuine Yixing pots are unglazed and come from Jiangsu province.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥100–¥800 depending on craftsmanship.
• Where to find it: Tea markets or artisan shops.

3. Chinese Silk

• Why pick this up: Silk production began here thousands of years ago — it’s luxurious, light, and distinctly Chinese.
• What to look for: Pure silk scarves, robes, or embroidered table runners.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥80–¥600.
• Where to find it: Hangzhou Silk Market or Suzhou’s silk workshops.

4. Porcelain and Ceramics

• Why pick this up: “China” is literally named after this art form.
• What to look for: Blue-and-white Jingdezhen porcelain or modern decorative plates.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥150–¥800+.
• Where to find it: Jingdezhen, or antique markets in Beijing and Shanghai.

5. Chinese Calligraphy Brushes & Ink Sets

• Why pick this up: A refined gift symbolizing culture and artistry.
• What to look for: High-quality goat or wolf-hair brushes and decorative ink stones.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥50–¥300.
• Where to find it: Stationery or art supply shops near cultural districts.

6. Jade Jewelry and Ornaments

• Why pick this up: Jade is said to bring harmony, health, and protection.
• What to look for: Pale green jade bangles or small carved pendants.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥200–¥2,000+.
• Where to find it: Authorized jade boutiques — avoid street stalls.

7. Chinese Fans

• Why pick this up: Beautifully painted folding fans are both decorative and practical.
• What to look for: Bamboo or silk fans with scenic or calligraphic designs.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥20–¥150.
• Where to find it: Souvenir shops and temple markets.

8. Chinese Knot Charms

• Why pick this up: These intricately tied red knots symbolize good luck and unity.
• What to look for: Small red tassel charms or more elaborate hanging designs.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥10–¥80.
• Where to find it: Street markets and cultural souvenir shops.

9. Panda-Themed Souvenirs

• Why pick this up: China’s national animal — cute, cuddly, and unmistakably Chinese.
• What to look for: Plush toys, keychains, mugs, or stationery.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥30–¥150.
• Where to find it: Chengdu or major tourist attractions.

10. Traditional Chinese Clothing (Qipao & Tang Suit)

• Why pick this up: Elegant and timeless fashion reflecting Chinese heritage.
• What to look for: Silk qipaos for women, Tang jackets for men.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥200–¥1,000.
• Where to find it: Tailor shops or traditional clothing stores.

11. Chinese Paper Cuttings

• Why pick this up: Intricate red paper designs symbolizing luck and prosperity.
• What to look for: Zodiac or floral motifs, often used for window decoration.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥10–¥60.
• Where to find it: Folk art markets or cultural heritage shops.

12. Chinese Spices & Condiments

• Why pick this up: Bring home the taste of Sichuan or Cantonese cooking.
• What to look for: Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil, five-spice powder, or black vinegar.
• Price bracket (2025): ¥10–¥80.
• Where to find it: Local food markets and supermarkets.

🧧 Final Tip

If you want a perfect mix of culture, practicality, and authenticity, go for tea, silk, and jade — the holy trinity of Chinese souvenirs.

About the Author

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter