25 Best Self-Care Gifts From Japan
by Teni Wada | LIFESTYLE
We know that self-care is a vital part of personal growth, healing, and wellness. But self-care just isn’t about eating right, exercising and relaxation. It’s also important to nourish your soul and to get your creative juices flowing, too; especially during these difficult times. When it comes to self-care, there is perhaps no better place to start than Japan. Its diet, customs, and cultural activities have long been a source of inspiration for those seeking enlightenment. This list of the 25 best self-care gifts from Japan explore the different avenues of self-care while bringing harmony to your loved ones.
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1. Mocha Chado Ceremonial Tea Set
Wash away cabin fever blues over a cup of freshly made matcha, a type of green tea made from finely powdered green tea leaves. Matcha is packed with antioxidants, substances that protect the body from cell-damaging molecules, and this gift set includes all the tools you need to try your hand at chado, the Japanese tea ceremony. Not only is matcha beneficial to the body, but the practice of whisking and serving matcha enriches the mind and soul as well.
Mocha Chado Tea Set – Check Price Here
2. Gold Long Kimono Robe
Social distancing protocols may have put a damper on your social calendar, but being homebound doesn’t mean that you have to stick to a wardrobe of sweats, PJs, and t-shirts. Whether you’re hosting a virtual party, vlogging your stay home escapades, or simply want to dabble in a bit of indulgence on Self-Care Sunday, this opulent kimono robe from Kyoto is sure to make a statement. Woodblock prints and peonies dance vividly among the oversized gold leaves and midnight sky, caressing your body in a soft cotton-satin veil.
Gold Long Kimono Robe – $109.99
3. Zen Garden
Don't let your new work-from-home lifestyle keep you stuck in a 9 to 5 rut. Place this miniature zen rock garden in the corner of your workspace as a gentle reminder to take breaks, refocus and relax. First established on the grounds of Kyoto temples in 13th century Japan, these rock gardens served as a meditation aid for Buddhist monks. This zen garden includes all the traditional elements of classical Japanese rock gardens, including fine white sand, rocks, shrubbery, and a rake that you can arrange to reach a moment of peace.
4. Matcha Green Zabuton Cushion
Find your inner zen as you relax in comfort with this finely crafted matcha green zabuton cushion from Takaokaya. As Kyoto’s premier zabuton maker, Takaokaya zabuton are handmade by artisans and backed by generations of Japanese craftsmanship and tradition. No detail is overlooked in the creation of this ergonomic cushion. A useful tool for posture correction, this warm green zabuton cushion will also properly align your spine during meditation or yoga and while sitting in a chair or sofa.
Matcha Green Zabuton Cushion – $149.99
5. Kintsugi Wellness: The Japanese Art of Nourishing Mind, Body, and Spirit
Not all that is broken is meant to be discarded, but how do we fix that which is broken? Discover how to forge your own path to self-acceptance with Kintsugi Wellness, a chronicle of self-care ideas and personal growth. Author Candance Kumai draws strength from her Japanese heritage, particularly kintsugi, a centuries old Japanese technique that uses gold pigment and lacquer to repair broken ceramics. While the cracks are clearly visible, what remains is a beautiful vessel worthy of admiration. Though our own cracks may take time to heal, Kumai shows us that it is possible to find success in our shortcomings by embracing our perceived imperfections.
Kintsugi Wellness – Check Price Here
6. Blue Ojami Cushion
Inspired by a traditional Japanese bean bag toy, the Seigaiha Blue Ojami Zabuton Cushion from Takaokaya is a playful reminder to find pleasure in each moment. Takaokaya is Kyoto’s finest maker of zabuton cushions, which are handcrafted ergogenic cushions that help you stay relaxed longer while supporting your posture. Whether you choose to use this zabuton cushion during prayer, yoga, or meditation or the generous layered padding of the Ojami will support your joints and lower back over an extended period of time.
7. Lululun Precious Red Sheet Masks
While wearing a face mask is a key part of reducing the spread of germs and illnesses, frequent use of face masks can lead to skin irritation and dryness. Add a boost of moisture to your skincare routine with Precious Red from Lululun, one of Japan’s top-selling sheet mask brands. A great addition to a self-care gift basket, Precious Red masks use several ingredients derived from rice to moisturize the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by dryness.
Lululun Sheet Masks – Check Price Here
8. Panasonic Facial Steamer
Give the gift of a spa experience from the comfort of one’s home this compact facial steamer from Panasonic. While Panasonic may be synonymous with TVs and other home appliances, its first beauty steamer, released in 1980, paved the way for the innovative Panasonic Beauty line. The Panasonic Nanocare Steamer releases nanosized particles of steam that cleanse and hydrate by penetrating the outermost layer of the skin. Use the lavender oil capsule included for an aromatic experience or add your own essential oils. Once finished, pat skin dry and follow up with a moisturizing sheet mask, cream or serum to boost the effectiveness of your skincare products.
Panasonic Facial Steamer – Check Price Here
9. Oshidori Silk Makeup Bag
An exquisite gift of luxury for yourself or for a loved one, this Oshidori Silk Brocade Travel Makeup Bag from Tatsumura Textile uses nishiki silk brocade and gold accents in a stunning recreation of an 8th century Japanese textile. Tatsumura Textiles is an award-winning, Kyoto-based atelier that has mastered the art of silk weaving over the course of its 125 year history. To own an item from Tatsumura Textile is to own a piece of Japanese history. Its designs embody artisanal mastery, so treat yourself to this beautiful work of art.
Oshidori Silk Makeup Bag – $79.99
10. Yumeguri Hot Springs Bath Salts
Yearning to bathe in some of Japan’s most beloved hot springs? Known as onsen, you’ll be able to experience four Japanese hot springs with this bath salt sampler from Yumeguri. It includes the beautifying waters of Hokkaido’s Tokachigawa Onsen (purple) and Tazawa Onsen in Nagano (blue), long fabled to be a source of fertility. The red package represents Ginzan Onsen, a town famed for its steam-filled romantic streets lit by gas lanterns. The final stop on your hot spring tour is Yakushima (green), fitting as it is an island in the south of Japan known for its lush vegetation. You’re sure to enjoy the best of Japan’s hot springs with this bath salt sampler!
Hot Springs Bath Salts – Check Price Here
11. Wooden Bath Stool & Bucket Set
That bucket list entry of soaking in a Japanese open-air bath while taking in the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji might remain unchecked this year. However, you can still enjoy Japanese bathing culture from the comfort of your own home with this wooden bath stool and bucket set crafted from two different types of rot-resistant cypress trees native to Japan. It is customary in Japan to wash one’s body before entering a freshly run bath, and a bath stool and bucket are commonly found in both public baths and homes across Japan. To start, sit on the stool and scrub your body, letting the refreshing citrusy aroma of hinoki wood soothe you. Use the bucket to rinse off soap suds before taking a well-deserved soak in the bathtub. Enjoy!
Wooden Bath Set – Check Price Here
12. Yum-Yum Bento Box: Fresh Recipes for Adorable Lunches
Upgrade your cooking skill set with charaben, adorable lunch box meals from Japan that use ingredients to create adorable and tasty characters. Along with providing concise instructions, nutrition tips, and a list of bento making supplies, Yum-Yum Bento Box: Fresh Recipes for Adorable Lunches also explores the history of Japanese cuisine and bento (lunch box) culture. While Japanese mothers typically prepare charaben for their young children, these kawaii creations are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face, no matter how old they are!
Yum-Yum Bento Box Recipies – Check Price Here
13. Sushi Set for Two
Make tonight’s dinner a special one with this ceramic dishware set for two. Even if sushi isn’t on the menu, you can certainly use these pieces to bring a piece of Japan to your dining table. Recreate the romantic air of yozakuara, or nighttime cherry blossom viewing, with these stylish plates that feature cherry blossoms against a midnight blue sky. Each set comes in a black gift box and contains 2 plates, 2 soup bowls, 2 sauce bowls, and 2 pairs of wooden chopsticks.
14. Gansan Tambi Watercolor Set
Whether you’re an artist at heart or simply testing the waters, you’ll definitely need a great set of tools in order to properly harness your creativity. Gansan Tambi is a line of traditional Japanese solid watercolors developed by Kuretake, a Japanese company that began as a sumi ink manufacturer in 1902. Its Gansan Tambi watercolors are ideal for both hobbyists and professional artists as its highly pigmented formula is smooth and fade little after drying. This watercolor set comes in a wooden box with removable trays that house 48 vibrant colors, brushes, and a mixing tray.
Watercolor Set – Check Price Here
15. Around the World Adult Coloring Book
Satisfy your wanderlust cravings with Around the World, a coloring book that takes on you a fantastic voyage across Europe from the vantage point of a tiny bird eager to fly. Each page is beautifully illustrated by Tokyo-based artist Lemo, who visually incorporates the refreshing taste of lemonade in her personal brand. Set aside a moment of each day to color in the intricate designs and relieve your stress and anxiety.
Around the World Adult Coloring Book – Check Price Here
16. Daiyo Warousoku Candle Set
Candles and self-care are more than a moodboard aesthetic: candles are a total sensory experience that calms and distresses. Turn off your gadgets, dim the lights, and be present in the flickering flames of a traditional Japanese candle handcrafted by the artisans at Daiyo using only rice bran and vegetable wax. Backed by generations of skill, Daiyo candles have been awarded Japan’s Good Design Award, a prestigious prize honoring innovative design among smaller manufacturers in Japan. Use these artisanal candles to accent your bathroom, kitchen table, bedroom or living room to bring a moment of zen into your life.
Daiyo Warousoku Candle Set – Check Price Here
17. Shoyeido White Cloud Incense Sticks
Incense is perhaps associated with Buddhist monks and meditation, but incense is a wonderful self-care tool that can be enjoyed outside the monastery. Even lifestyle guru Marie Kondo begins her day by lighting a stick of incense first thing in the morning to calm and cleanse. Koh is the Japanese word for incense, and it’s also the Japanese word for fragrance. For more than 300 years, Kyoto-based Shoyeido has masterfully blended the two words with its incense that is considered to be of the highest quality available in the world. Its White Cloud scent is inspired by white clouds floating across a blue sky, and is suitable for daily use to bring about a moment of inner peace.
Shoyeido Incense Sticks – Check Price Here
18. Asakuki Air Diffuser
Transform your home into a quiet oasis of relaxation with this 5-in-1 essential oil diffuser from Asakuki. Japanese for morning air, the Asakuki diffuser masks unpleasant scents with a continuous stream of fragrant mist while simultaneously functioning as a humidifier. Use it to aid with mindfulness during meditation, prayer or yoga, to boost your productivity when working or studying, or to softly lull you to sleep. Along with 4 timer settings, mist density control, the Asakuki diffuser has an LED light feature and an automatic shut off function to prevent overheating.
Asakuki Air Diffuser – Check Price Here
19. Yakult Fruit Aojiru
Start your day off right with aojiru, a powdered green drink from Japan that gives your diet a tasty and nutritious boost. Yakult, the Japanese company known globally for its probiotic yogurt drinks, has put a twist on Japan’s classic health drink with its Morning Fruit Aojiru mix. The smooth, fruity flavor is sure to make it a family favorite. Simply mix the contents of one packet with water, yogurt, or in a smoothie to get the minerals and vitamins that your body needs.
Yakult Fruit Aojiru – Check Price Here
20. Omron Leg Massagers
If you’ve decided to use lockdown as an opportunity to revisit your forgotten new year’s resolution to get fit, your legs are certainly feeling the burn right now! Wrap the adjustable Omron Leg Cuffs around your calves and let the soothing pulsation work their magic on your swollen and tired limbs. The Omron Leg Cuffs are also a great self-care gift idea for family members or friends who suffer from restless leg syndorme, fluid buildup and other leg ailments.
Omron Leg Massagers – Check Price Here
21. Mugwort Foot Sheets
Had a busy day? It’s time to relax and put up your feet — and put these mugwort foot sheets on your soles. Rirashito (a Japanese portmanteau of relax and sheet) are a brand of disposable relaxation foot sheets with detoxifying properties. Bamboo powder absorbs dirt and bacteria from the skin while mugwort is an antifungal ingredient packed with vitamin E to nourish. These ideal personal care gifts can be applied in the evening before bed to give your feet a much needed break and to feel refreshed in the morning.
Mugwort Foot Sheets – Check Price Here
22. Shiseido Moist Hand Cream
Hand soap and sanitizer are effective in preventing the spread of disease. However, excess hand washing can lead to dry, cracked hands, which ironically gives bacteria an entry point into our bodies. Safeguard your skin and nourish dry, cracked hands with this soothing medicated hand cream from Shiseido. The push-to-open lid prevents spills during transport, and you won’t have to worry about losing the cap somewhere in your bag or car either. It’s fragrance free and contains no artificial colors, making it a great choice for individuals with preexisting dermatologic conditions like eczema or psoriasis as well. For best results, apply to your hands before bed and wear a pair of cotton clothes to lock in moisture overnight.
Shiseido Hand Cream – Check Price Here
23. Bamboo Ear Cleaner
One of Japan’s lesser-known self-care items, the unassuming ear cleaner, or mimikaki, is a handy tool to have in your arsenal. Crafted from bamboo, this set of two slender scoops are an ideal environmentally friendly replacement for disposable cotton swabs. Not only do these ear picks do the job when it comes to removing earwax, you can also use them to alleviate yourself of an ear itch. Once finished, use the cotton pom pom to gently brush away wax and dry skin.
Bamboo Ear Cleaner – Check Price Here
24. Steam Neck Pillow
Soothe your aching neck, shoulders and back with Kiribai Azuki Steam Neck Pillow, a pillow that uses heat to gently relieve tension and increase blood circulation. This pillow uses adzuki, red beans which are a common ingredient in classic Japanese sweets. The tasteful pink and red color scheme of this reusable pillow incorporates the qualities of adzuki bean into a whimsical geometric print. To use, simply heat your adzuki bean neck pillow in the microwave for 1 minute to enjoy 25 minutes of relaxation.
Steam Neck Pillow – Check Price Here
25. Tidying Up with Marie Kondo: The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy
Marie Kondo, or Konmari as she is known to millions who have welcomed her decluttering practices into their home, is the lifestyle guru whose books, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up and Spark Joy, revolutionized our relationship with our belongings and ourselves. If quarantine cleaning seems like a daunting task, let Kondo guide the way to decluttering and embracing your inner “quaranqueen.” Share your soon-to-be retired items online and spark joy in others with your finds.
Tidying Up with Marie Kondo – Check Price Here
May 29, 2020 | Lifestyle, Shopping, Gifts
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