Japanese Gifts
10 Things to Consider When Buying Japanese Gifts
1. Be careful with humor
The last thing you want to do is come off as offensive with your gift. Even if that is not your intention, it can happen if you aren’t careful.
Gifts should always be respectful, and humor can be part of that, just make sure the gift isn’t making fun of Japanese culture.
2. Consider their specific interests
What is it about Japan or Japanese culture that they love? Is it the language? The food? The art?
This will help you narrow down what item to get and ensures you are getting them a gift that is relevant and that you know they will love.
3. Help them grow
An educational gift can be perfect in this particular sense! Why not help this person learn more about Japan or Japanese culture?
There are so many books and other items out there that can teach you about everything from the country’s history, to the language, the food, and so much more.
Consider a great coffee table book - not only will they learn something, they will love displaying the book as well!
4. Home decor
This is especially perfect if you are invited to a housewarming party. There are plenty of gorgeous Japanese or Japanese inspired pieces out there - from furniture, artwork, to plate sets, you name it!
5. Channel Marie Kondo
Are you shopping for someone who loves her show (I mean, who doesn’t?) In any case, Marie Kondo is pretty much synonymous with organization and minimalism, popular concepts in Japanese culture.
For the person who loves keeping things neat and tidy, this couldn’t be a better gift theme!
6. Do a food sampling
There are so many unique Japanese food creations out there - and that makes for a great present!
In particular, there are a lot of unique desserts/candies out there that any lover of Japanese culture would love to try. You might love some, you might hate some, but that’s part of the fun!
7. Mix things up with sake
If you are shopping for an adult, why not get them a sake gift? This could be some actual sake, or a nice set of cups that can be used for drinking it.
There are some really nice sake sets out there that aren’t just practical, they are nice to look at too and are sure to be kept on display when they aren’t being used!
8. Be zen
The concept of zen is very popular in Japanese culture. Why not get someone either a book teaching them about zen, or something like a mini zen garden to keep at home or at work?
9. Consider a coloring book
What is great is that this is actually a greatidea both for children and adults. There are plenty of Japanese inspired coloring books out there (including adult coloring books) that make for such great gifts.
Not only do you end up with gorgeous colored scenes depicting various places in Japan or aspects of their culture, the act of coloring the pages is very relaxing and perfect for unwinding after a long day!
10. Give the gift of an experience
This doesn’t have to mean a trip to Japan (although who would say no to that?) That is certainly a bit expensive, but you can go for something far more affordable that is still incredibly fun!
It could be something as simple as going out to a nice sushi bar for dinner, or signing up for an origami class. Not only is the gift itself great, they will get to spend time with you as well. Awesome!
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