The Year of the Horse galloped in earlier this week amid glowing red lanterns lining city streets, and families embracing the warmth of reunions with loved ones.

Amid all the festive hustle and bustle, a simple chart of suggestions from Guangdong province unexpectedly became one of the festive season's most talked-about cultural phenomena.

It told people how much money to put into a hongbao — the red gift envelope traditionally handed out during the Spring Festival period.

The recommended amounts were modest: 100 yuan ($14) for close blood relatives, 50 yuan for near but not related by blood relatives, 20 yuan for cousins, 10 yuan for distant relatives and 5 yuan for neighbors.

Compiled by netizens, the chart reflected long-standing local practices in Guangdong, where hongbao — known in Cantonese as laisee — is more about symbolism than the sum.

The online response to the chart shared on WeChat, Douyin and Weibo has been overwhelmingly positive. Many netizens praised the guide for helping the festival "return to its original meaning" and for easing the financial pressure that can accompany holiday giving.

Source: China Daily
Editor: Wen Junhua