Good article on Gift Giving in China and I agree, Gift Giving is important.  Its important not just to be a taker.  So if you go to someone's house, you should bring a gift.

I already knew some of them.  Alcohol is usually a safe gift.

Chinese Gift Etiquette, Gift Ideas and Taboos - Jazz Violin

A book that has some great advice on Chinese Customs that I use as a reference:

Good Luck Life: The Essential Guide To Chinese American Celebrations And Culture

Labels: gifts