Don’t Get Caught Out! Things You Might Not Know About Japan’s Gift-Giving Culture
Gifts are a huge part of Japan's culture, and they're not just fun to receive, but they're important for the person giving them, too. Giving gifts are considered an important form of communication, a well as a way of building and maintaining good relationships. This is why understanding the basics of Japan's gift-giving culture can really help you out while you're in Japan! Here are some tips for navigating Japan's complex gift-giving culture.
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When Should You Give a Present?
While Christmas and birthdays are standards in the West, there are some other times where a present may be expected that are good to keep in mind when you\'re visiting Japan.
Seasonal Gift Giving Periods
Gifts for Visits
Moving Presents
Gifts of Support
Another occasion that you should prepare a gift for is omimai, which is a visit to someone who is ill or otherwise going through a difficult time. In these occasions, your purpose is to provide your support, so there are some important things to keep in mind.
Wedding Presents
Valentine\'s Day
There are quite a few differences in how Valentine\'s Day is celebrated in Japan compared to other countries. In Japan, women give a gift of chocolate to express her feelings on Valentine\'s Day. At its heart, this gift is a romantic gesture, but it’s also common to celebrate the day with gifts to friends, classmates, or coworkers without any romantic undertones.
Do\'s and Don\'ts of Gift Giving
If you are a visitor in Japan, it\'s most likely that Japanese people won\'t expect you to perfectly understand local customs, and will appreciate your gesture for what it is. Still, whether you\'re buying a gift for business, family, or friends, it\'s best to know the basics!
Gift Wrapping
The traditional standard for wrapping presents in Japan is a little different to the wrapping paper and card combo you might be familiar with. Of course, for more casual presents among friends and family, this style is perfectly OK, but for more formal occasions like ochugen, oseibo, or a gift for a wedding, knowing the conventions will go a long way.
Return Gifts
How to Give a Gift
There are many other times of the year that Japanese people like to give gifts, including occasions most of us are familiar with like Christmas, birthdays, and Mother\'s and Father\'s Day. So, keep these tips in mind if you are giving and receiving gifts in Japan, and you\'re sure to appreciate just how far a kind gesture can go!
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.
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