The cliché of Japan as a beautiful yet mystifying country, is occasionally true, and one custom that can particularly baffle expats in Japan is gift giving. You may have heard that, in Japan, giving two of anything is sometimes deemed extremely unlucky, but did you know that the same goes for giving gifts in sets of four or even nine? Read on to equip yourself with all the necessary knowledge for giving gifts like a pro in Japan.
Although Christmas and birthdays have recently become more widely celebrated in Japan, there were originally two main gift-giving seasons - ochugen in July and oseibo in December - which are still widely observed throughout Japan. Gifts are usually given to close relatives as well as to teachers, superiors, and clients to show thanks and respect.
Japanese department stores usually have a wide range of specific gifts that can be sent directly to the recipient. Popular choices include boxes of seasonal fruit or thirst-quenching drinks for the summer ochugen and alcohol, warming teas, or snacks for the winter oseibo. If you aren’t sure what to choose, ask the department staff for guidance. A gift from ¥2,000 upward is best, but more importantly, it is the thought that counts. Japanese business clients and connections will be particularly impressed and appreciative of this kind gesture.
If you visit any popular tourist spot in Japan, you will notice lots of souvenir shops dotted around the area. Souvenir shops do a roaring trade in Japan, and anybody who ventures out of town is usually expected to bring back regional snacks for friends and coworkers. A box of cookies or cakes for sharing among coworkers is perfect. There is no need to buy individual gifts, just make sure there is enough to go round.
There are a few taboos to be aware of when giving gifts in Japan, but don’t worry if you can’t remember them all. It’s of course an extra bonus if a foreigner can remember these points, but it’s not a must:
Self-care is important above all. Don’t forget to spoil yourself sometimes - who says you can’t enjoy ochugen, oseibo, and buying regional souvenirs too? For an extra-special treat, why not give yourself the gift of a sparkling-clean home with Kurashinity’s premium housekeeping service? Highly trained, fluent English-speaking housekeepers are on hand to dust, polish, and clean every inch of your house, which will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed. Go on, treat yourself!
Originally from the United Kingdom, Jessica is a writer and translator now living happily by the sea just south of Tokyo in Kamakura, Japan.
