Cheap Japanese Gifts
It's easy to get obsessed with Japanese culture, whether it's delicious dishes like sushi, the ancient art of Noh theater or the pop culture phenomenon that is Hello Kitty. Thanks to fans of all things Japanese around the globe, one needn't travel to the Orient in order to find a perfect gift for those in love of the tiny island nation, as many shops and websites are stocked with goods.
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Origami Goodies
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Origami paper can be used to make all sorts of creations. Origami, the art of Japanese paper folding, is a popular pastime in Japan that has been practiced for hundreds of years. Some origami is simple, requiring just a few folds and creases to construct a paper flower or animal, but other forms are complex. Special origami paper is available at many craft and art supply stores and can be combined with a small book of origami projects to make a reasonably priced gift. To save extra money, skip purchasing a book and print out a few pages of origami instructions online and present them stapled into a tidy packet.
Food Items
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Items to make sushi will be a hit with fans of Japanese cuisine. Japanese cuisine is renowned the world over for its simplicity, artful presentation and health benefits. Many grocery stores and specialty shops carry an array of Japanese foodstuffs that can be used as gifts, so combine several items to make an eclectic present. Sushi lovers will appreciate some decorated chopsticks, a rolling mat and a packet of nori seaweed, and noodle fans will enjoy some udon noodles, pickled radish and gourmet soy sauce to add flavor to their soup.
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DVDs
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DVDs of Japanese anime can be watched time and again. Anime, Japanese animation, is available in many forms and dubbed into many languages, which has earned it fans across the globe. Many anime films, like Akira, the tale of a boy with psychic powers in a futuristic Tokyo, are considered classics in their own right. Select a DVD or two of anime movies or cartoons as an inexpensive gift, selecting something suited to the recipient's tastes, like a light comedy or a heavy sci-fi thriller.
Language Books
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To truly get to the heart of Japanese culture and society, it's necessary to understand the country's language. Of course, learning Japanese is no small feat, but beginners will appreciate the gift of a study guide or language workbook to get them off to a good start. Consider a simple English-Japanese phrasebook or dictionary for anyone planning a trip to Japan, as it can help them during their travels. Others might appreciate a practice book they can fill in as they work through the pages.
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