It's not just the gift, but the thought behind it

"The Chinese care about the appearance of the gift as well. They always appreciate good packaging and limited editions," he said.

Still, Rona has one particular complaint. The Chinese won't open gifts in front of the givers, whereas people in the West usually open gifts to express their gratitude face-to-face. This can lead to misunderstandings.

"It feels like they don't care or they don't like it," he said.

Ji Jiejing, a researcher of ancient Chinese civilization with the museum of the Imperial College, or Guozijian, said this stems from the promotion of humility and restraint in Chinese culture.

"Opening a gift immediately upon receiving it used to be considered as impolite. But now, the rules are merging with Western ways and some taboos are fading," Ji said.

But, Ji said, generally speaking the rule to reciprocate a gift with another present of similar value is recommended.

"In China, courtesy demands reciprocity. If you don't return the gift with another equivalent item, it may be considered you are in debt to the presenter."

However, some things are constant universally. Items inaccessible in China, likewise in the West, such as handicraft from givers' native countries are always welcomed. In business relations, foreign cigarettes, fine whiskey and quality wines are relatively safe gifts.

"Gift-giving is just one small part of Chinese culture that Westerners need to learn about. You can't learn everything in a day－you have to experience it to really learn the customs－but at least make an effort," said Dreyer.