Tea: Longjing, Tieguanyin, Pu erh and jasmine are classic gifts; buy at specialty shops and check origin and grade.
Silk: Hangzhou Silk City and Suzhou embroidery are classics; scarves, pyjamas and handkerchiefs vary hugely in price - look for "100% mulberry silk".
Porcelain: Jingdezhen ware and Dehua white porcelain; small cups and vases travel well; ship large pieces.
Culture & crafts: Palace Museum merch, paper-cutting, Suzhou fans and bamboo weaving - light and meaningful.
Food: local snacks, mooncakes (autumn), cured meats; check your home country customs for meat products.
Tax refund: foreign visitors buying over RMB 500 at participating shops can claim ~11% VAT refund at departure - keep the forms.
