The Art of Japanese Gift Giving
Japan's Omiyage Culture
An omiyage (お土産) is a gift you normally give to your family, friends, or co-workers after returning home from a trip.
The boxes of omiyages are brightly colored and contain individually-wrapped snacks which is perfect for sharing.
Here are some of my favorites and most recommended omiyages from Japan:
KitKat
KitKat has been the best selling souvenir in Japan due to the limited-edition flavors from each regions.
The common ones at the airport include uji matcha (green tea), waichigo (strawberry), sakura matcha (cherry blossom green tea), Hokkaido azuki (azuki bean) and rum raisin. But you may also find flavors like sweet potato, european cheese, bean cake and wasabi.
Tokyo Banana
Shaped like a banana, this cream-filled snack is also one of the most popular treats from Japan.
There are varieties of flavor and style such as the giraffe-spotted banana caramel custard cream, leopard-print chocolate banana custard, and even castella cakes.
Shiroi Koibito
Literally "White Lover", this white chocolate European style cookie is one of Hokkaido’s best known and hottest selling snacks since 1976.
Mifuyu
Mifuyu was launched as a new confection in the tradition of Shiroi Koibito cookies. The name is inspired by the beautiful (mi) winter (fuyu) scenery of Hokkaido.
The distinguishing feature of Mifuyu is the good combination of chocolate and mille-feuille.
What omiyage to bring home?
The tradition of omiyage in Japan only shows the politeness of the Japanese people.
Although beautifully packaged food makes the best omiyage, you can also buy themed and printed items such as wooden fans, stamps, stationery, tabi socks, and tshirts.
Omiyages can be found almost anywhere in Japan with so many shops selling them. So the next time you travel, don't forget to buy some! :)
Giving gifts is wonderful. Thanks for reminding us that it is better to give than to receive.
That's absolutely true, @joechiappetta! Welcome :)
NICE POST.THANKS FOR SHARING BROTHER AND I FOLLOW YOU.UPVOTED
Thanks @funandmoney! I've checked your blog and followed you back :)
Giving gift is giving happiness and that feeling is the most satisying one. Good to know about this, seen many animes but never showed anything about omiyages, so it was a good read. Upvoted for the good post :)
Thanks @vishal09! I appreciate it :)