Japan Gifts: Unwrapping Do’s and Don’ts
Steeped in history and symbolic meaning, the ritual act of gift-giving is an important cultural tradition in Japan. Gift exchange is a common way to show respect, gratitude, and social status in many different types of relationships. Whether it’s for birthdays, weddings, graduations, or business meetings, the act of giving gifts in Japan is highly nuanced. And, there many different customs and expectations to be aware of. One of our favorite traditions is the Japanese thank you gift. After receiving a gift, it’s common for Japanese people to send a small “thank you” gift back to the sender. They call this sweet gesture an O-kaeshi.
The choice of gift, wrapping, and presentation are all carefully considered, and can say a lot about the giver and their relationship with the recipient. From traditional items such as wagashi sweets, to the latest gadgets and luxury goods, the options for gifts are vast and constantly evolving. Understanding the significance of Japan gifts and Japanese culture is essential for building strong relationships and navigating social situations in Japan. Let’s take a deep dive into Japanese gifts and the do’s and don’ts of gift giving in Japan.
