Strangest Gifting Cultures Around the World

Gift-giving is a universal practice, but the way people exchange presents varies dramatically across cultures. Some traditions are rooted in superstition, while others reflect deep social customs. What might be a heartfelt gesture in one country could be seen as offensive in another. Let’s explore some of the strangest and most fascinating gifting traditions around the world.

1. China: The Taboo of Clocks and Shoes

In China, gifting a clock is considered highly inauspicious because the phrase for “giving a clock” (送钟, sòng zhōng) sounds like “sending someone to their end,” a reference to death. Similarly, gifting shoes is seen as unlucky since the word for shoes (鞋, xié) sounds like “bad luck” or “evil” in some dialects. Instead, it’s common to give money in red envelopes (hongbao), symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

2. Japan: The Etiquette of Wrapping and the Fear of the Number 4

In Japan, presentation is just as important as the gift itself. Gifts should be wrapped neatly, and opening them in front of the giver is considered impolite. Another unusual aspect of Japanese gifting culture is the avoidance of gifts in sets of four. The number four (四, shi) sounds like the word for death (死, shi), making it a bad omen. This extends to everything from dishware sets to floral arrangements.

3. Russia: Flowers Come With Rules

In Russia, gifting flowers seems simple, but it comes with strict rules. Odd numbers of flowers are for celebratory occasions, while even numbers are reserved for funerals. Giving an even-numbered bouquet to someone on a birthday or romantic occasion would be seen as highly inappropriate. Also, yellow flowers are often avoided, as they symbolize betrayal or a breakup.

4. India: The Right Hand Matters

In India, gifts should always be given and received with the right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean in many cultural and religious traditions. Additionally, gifting money is common, but it’s never given in even numbers like 100 or 500. Instead, adding a single rupee (like 101 or 501) is considered auspicious and brings good luck.

5. South Korea: Avoid Sharp Objects

In South Korea, giving knives or scissors as gifts is believed to symbolize cutting ties with the recipient. If you must give a sharp object, tradition dictates that the receiver should “buy” it from you by giving a small coin in return to counteract the bad omen. Also, like in China, red ink should never be used to write names on gifts, as it’s traditionally associated with death.

6. Germany: Be Careful With Wine and Knives

In Germany, gifting a knife is also seen as bad luck, as it symbolizes severing relationships. Similarly, giving wine is a common and appreciated gift, but if you receive wine in return for an invitation, it’s polite to open it immediately rather than saving it for later—otherwise, it may seem like you don’t appreciate the gesture.

7. Egypt: Never Say Thank You

In Egypt, when receiving a gift, it’s considered polite not to open it immediately. Saying “thank you” upon receiving a gift can also be seen as dismissive rather than appreciative. Instead, gratitude is typically expressed later through actions or a reciprocal gift.

From the significance of numbers to the choice of wrapping, gifting traditions around the world carry deep cultural meanings. Next time you buy a present for someone from a different background, it might be worth checking if your well-intended gift has hidden meanings! For not so strange gifts, visit a Handelshuis gift store near you!