Jan, I have to chuckle, because I recently asked something very similar. I know as nurses we have the issue of being sensitive to our patients cultural practices stressed to us in training and it can definitely be an issue as different cultures have different health practices.
I recently decided to participate in the Little Dresses for Africa program and the first thing I did was email the site to ask if certain animals that I might embroider on the dresses would be offensive in their culture.
I think it is so generous of you to make this young couple a quilt for their little one. Is there a university near you that teaches Chinese language or culture classes? They would be a great resource for this type of info. My daughter took several semesters of Chinese when she was in college.
I agree with those who said that they wouldn't stick with an Asian theme. I will bet too, that they will be proud of the quilt from their American friend.