Gifts for Japanese Visitors

Gift wrapping is important but can go wrong.

Giving a gift should be a pleasurable experience for both the giver and the recipient. Sometimes, though, social rules are broken by mistake and the gift can cause problems rather than being seen simply for what it is. The Japanese culture takes gifts and the protocol around giving them very seriously.

Call Ahead to Save Embarrassment

Homemade food is an acceptable gift.

Gifts are an important part of Japanese business and it is advisable to inform the recipient that you will be giving a small gift and advise what it will be. This gives him the opportunity to reciprocate as it would cause great embarrassment to him if he did not offer a gift in return.

Choose something local if possible. Local food or wine is an excellent choice and should be wrapped to look as attractive as possible as a sign of respect. Do not spend too much money as the recipient will feel indebted to you. Give your gift at the end of the meeting or evening.

Status Matters

Never give an identical gift to two people from the same company if one is higher ranked than the other. Status is very important in Japan and a more junior member of a team would be mortified to receive an equal gift to his superior. Chocolates or locally made sweets are always acceptable and you can choose different-sized boxes according to status. White chocolate is a bereavement gift in Japan so avoid white chocolate flowers.

Avoid Unlucky Numbers

Numbers four and nine are seen as unlucky in Japan so avoid giving anything in these combinations -- four wine glasses and a local wine, for example. The number two is seen as lucky so two bottles of wine with two glasses would be a better gift.

Small but Good Quality

Quality is what counts with the Japanese. Food products are very much appreciated because they take up very little room, but only give the very best. A small quantity of fresh coffee beans or delicious blend of tea is very appropriate as is a top-quality alcoholic drink.

Gift Wrap

Your gift must be wrapped, and it must be handed with both hands. Ceremony is very important and you should not expect your gift to be opened in front of you. Similarly, if you receive a gift, you should admire the wrapping and not rush to open it as this could cause offense. Avoid red or white wrapping as white is associated with funerals and red with weddings.

References

• Japan: Behavior
• Omiyage: What Gifts to Give Japanese People When You Visit Them