What are Omiyage? 6 Things to Know About Japanese Gifts

by Laura Miyasaka | LIFESTYLE

Imabari Towel Gift Set, available at Japan Objects Store

When it comes to gift giving, nowhere else quite lives up to the reputation of Japan. Where each region specializes in its own unique omiyage (gifts), making one-of-a-kind masterpieces that are often elegantly wrapped in colorful Japanese furoshiki (cloth). This culture of gift gifting in Japan, extends beyond special occasions and can be a part of everyday life. Meaning that it can be tricky to know when and what to gift. That’s why, in this article we explain exactly what omiyage is, its cultural significance and introduce the perfect selection of Japanese regional gifts.

1. What Does Omiyage Mean?

© Jesper Rautell Balle / Creative Commons, Manju with Gold Leaf

Omiyage (お土産, pronounced oh-me-yah-geh) is often translated as souvenir, as the literal meaning of the kanji is product of the land. However, in contrast to souvenirs, which are often purchased for oneself when traveling, a better translation would be gifts that are given to friends, family or colleagues. Not just any gift, omiyage are given in certain situations, for example, to thank someone, to apologize or as a sign of appreciation. Beyond this, there are also times when omiyage are required as an unwritten social rule, such as when you travel out of town for a long vacation and you return to work or when you start a new job and want to show your appreciation to your employer.

2. Why are Omiyage Important in Japan?

Japanese omiyage date back centuries to when ancient pilgrims brought back gifts from their pilgrimage to shrines. Nowadays, however, omiyage has become a social obligation in Japanese society. Consequently, you can find omiyage stores all over Japan, from train stations to tourist attractions and even at convenience stores. All to provide people with the means to give the perfect gift. Much like everything else in Japan, presentation is key and a lot of attention to detail is given in the wrapping of omiyage. Omiyage is usually gift wrapped, especially in furoshiki, a traditional Japanese cloth that can come in a variety of designs.

3. When to Give Omiyage?

Fushimi Doll Shop by Tokuriki Tomikichiro, 1950s

So, when are omiyage given? Here are some examples when omiyage are given in Japan.

Visiting someone’s home. In Japan, when someone invites you to their home, a lot of work and preparation goes on behind the scenes. They will not only prepare their house for visitors but likely prepare special beverages and snacks for your arrival. Therefore, it is good practice to give omiyage when you visit, as a thank you for the invitation and a thank you for hosting.

Returning from a vacation. You may be used to buying souvenirs for yourself and a few close friends from your travels, but in Japan people return with omiyage for their colleagues, and pretty much anyone else whom they told they were going on vacation, and plan to meet soon after. It is a way to share the joy of your vacation with friends, to thank your workplace for allowing the time off, and to show appreciation to your colleagues for continuing your work while you were away.

Showing appreciation. If someone makes your day by going the extra mile or helps you out in a time of need, omiyage can be a thoughtful gesture to show your appreciation.

To apologize. Similar to the above, omiyage can be a great way to apologize sincerely.

To celebrate a milestone. Did someone have a baby? Get a new job? Pass a test? Move to a new home? Depending on the situation, omiyage can show your support to a friend or family member in their big life event.

4. Where to Buy Omiyage?

Each prefecture in Japan has its own omiyage, unique to the region. Visitors travel far and wide just to buy their one-of-a-kind omiyage. At Japan Objects, we work alongside local artisans bringing their work to the world. Below we have listed some of our favorite regional omiyage that would make the perfect gift.

Kyoyaki Teacups, available at Japan Objects Store

Kiyomizu-yaki and Kyo-yaki ceramics from Higashiyama, Kyoto. These ceramics, unique to Kyoto and a government-designated traditional Japanese craft, have a long history dating back four centuries. The ceramics are nearly all handmade in small quantities and are largely made from glass, allowing artists to create fine and delicate pieces. Ninshu, a 400 year old pottery that specializes in Kyoto ware, still create exquisite pieces such as this set of two handcrafted earthenware cups with bold swirls of gold. The set is complete with a custom-made paulownia wooden box with an imprint of the Imperial seal of Japan. Find out more about Kyoyaki here.

Bizenyaki Beer Mugs, available at Japan Objects Store

Bizenyaki ceramics from Bizen, Okayama. Bizenyaki is a type of pottery crafted in a town called Bizen, in western Japan. Bizen has a rich history creating exquisite ceramics and has been named one of Japan’s six ancient kilns, where the development of the kiln and techniques have been carefully preserved. Hozangama is one pottery that is now under its 19th generation of potters and creates beautiful bizenyaki ceramics such as these beer mugs, characterized by golden flecks of pine that latch onto the clay in the ancient cave kiln. Furthermore, the iron-containing clay in bizenyaki ceramics is said to enhance both the flavor and aroma of the beer. Read more about Bizen’s wabi-sabi pottery here.

Tokoname Teapot Set, available at Japan Objects Store

Teaware from Tokoname, Aichi. Tokoname is another one of Japan’s six ancient kilns, famous for crafting teapots. Tokoname clay produces teaware that is lightweight, smooth and easy to use. In addition, the iron in Tokoname clay is said to soften the astringency of Japanese green tea. Our Green Tokoname Teaware set is handcrafted by Ukou kiln in Tokoname, who have received several awards for their tea ware. Find out Why Tokoname-Yaki is Best in Class!

Aizome Scarf, available at Japan Objects Store

Aizome Indigo Dye from Shikoku, Tokushima. Natural indigo dyed cotton and traditional weaving techniques from Awa, Tokushima, produce some of the finest fabrics in Japan, known for its vibrant blue colors, known as Japan Blue. The natural indigo is antibacterial, hypoallergenic and eco-friendly as it does not use any harmful products. The characteristic blue colors become more vibrant over time as it is used and washed. For an example see our handwoven Aizome indigo dyed scarves here, or check out 7 Things You Should Know About Japanese Indigo Dye.

5. How to Wrap Omiyage?

Furoshiki Wrapping Cloth, available at Japan Objects Store

After carefully selecting the perfect omiyage, add the finishing touch with a traditional Japanese furoshiki, a decorative cloth wrap. These eco-friendly wraps can be repurposed to be used as tablecloths, baby bibs or to wrap up your lunchbox, all with a few clever twists and ties. At Japan Objects you can choose you own furoshiki here or find out the 14 Things You Need to Know about Furoshiki!

6. What is the Etiquette of Giving Omiyage?

If you are planning to gift your omiyage in Japan, keep in mind these five etiquette rules.

1. Remove the gift from its paper bag and hand it over with both hands.

2. Pass it so that any text or picture is facing the recipient.

3. Say a few words, such as this commonly used Japanese phrase, kokoro bakari no mono desu ga, o uketori kudasai (心ばかりのものですが、お受け取り下さい). Which roughly translates to “it’s not much, but please accept my token of appreciation”.

4. If in the workplace, hand it to the person with the highest position first.

5. If it is perishable hand it over sooner rather than later, but not at the door. Otherwise hand it over before you take a seat, or if visiting for dinner, gift it after dinner before you leave.