As the Year of the Horse approaches, are you also searching for a gift that is both thoughtful and distinctive? Check out this Chinese New Year gift guide, where behind every item lies a delightful blend of creativity and authentic local charm.

1. Yuyuan Lantern Festival

Since the 2023 Year of the Rabbit, cultural and creative handheld lanterns from the Yuyuan Lantern Festival have gained strong popularity among consumers.

Crafted from vinyl, this year's horse themed lantern is available in two colorways. The version with eyelashes features a dreamy pink and blue palette, evoking a fairy tale spirit, while the design without eyelashes adopts warm and vibrant shades of yellow and orange.

The lantern can be carried by hand using a handle or easily converted for cross-body wear with a long woven strap, striking a balance between practicality and style. When illuminated at night, it emits a soft yellow glow that also functions as ambient lighting, enhancing its appeal as a versatile and decorative accessory.

 

2. Shanghai Museum

Transformable neck pillow

This innovative portable neck pillow combines zodiac culture with practical function. Inspired by the museum's brown-glazed equestrian figure, it features a transformable design suitable for various scenarios such as office work, commuting, and travel.

Pony canvas tote

The most ingenious detail of this tote is concealed within the Velcro patch on the pony's cheek. The designer created two interchangeable expressions that allow for an instant switch. Simply peel and flip the Velcro to transform the pony from a "healing cutie" into a "poor little pitiful", as if giving tangible form to one's inner emotions.

Pony fridge magnets

The fridge magnets come in two designs. One features a cheerful expression, with the pony smiling and revealing two adorable little fangs. The other captures an indignant pout, its mouth turned downward like a wronged child, an expression that almost invites comfort.

Transportation card keychain

This adorable pair of ponies draws inspiration from the Shanghai Museum's colored glazed ceramic equestrian musician figurine from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).  Available in both blue and red, each piece doubles as a public transportation card, usable across China.

 

3. Juce Culture and Media

This year, Juce Culture and Media has introduced a gift set featuring pickleball equipment alongside playing cards.

The set includes two rackets, two balls, and two decks of cards, offering a single gift with twice the sincerity. It's perfect for energetic matches on the court and for relaxed indoor games, making it an ideal choice for both active and leisurely moments.

 

4. Shen Da Cheng

Pastry gift box

Shen Da Cheng blends traditional craftsmanship with modern flavors to create a Year of the Horse limited edition pastry gift box, containing both original and pistachio flavors.

Eight-treasure rice and steamed sponge rice cake gift box

This delightful gift box features eight-treasure rice and steamed sponge rice cake with preserved fruits. At family reunion feasts, the meal often culminates with a steamed dessert, and the moment when eight-treasure rice or sponge rice cake is served truly brings the celebration to a satisfying close.

 

5. Xing Hua Lou

Chinese New Year pastry gift box

Curated with premium ingredients, this pastry gift box brings together Western flavors and the classic tastes of old Shanghai, with each pastry offering a soft and delicate texture.

Drawing inspiration from the winding curves of Yuyuan Garden's Jiuqu Bridge, the sparkle of the Oriental Pearl Tower, and the grandeur of the Customs House on the Bund, the designs transform iconic Shanghai landmarks into exquisite patterns adorning the pastries.

 

Sources: Huangpu district government, Shanghai Museum, Shen Da Cheng