The Japanese Art of Gift-giving: A Guide
In this - our latest journal article - we explore the Japanese art of gift-giving. Read on to read why the people of Japan think it's important to express your love with presents.
Ah, ‘ochugen’: the Japanese art of giving gifts to the people closest to you.
Typically, giving such gifts takes place from the first of July until the 15th, but with Christmas on the way, we thought we’d explore this time-served tradition and discuss why it’s so important to the people of Japan. After all, there is a December version of 'ochugen' too.
Read on for more on the subject of lavishing your loved ones with presents…
What is ochugen?
In Japan, writes Mao Goto on the Japan Wonder Travel Blog, ‘the culture of giving gifts to close friends and superiors is deeply rooted in the months of July and December’, with gifts given in July called ochugen.
The act of gift-giving in December, meanwhile, is referred to as ‘oseibo’.
Where does the tradition originate?
Ochugen, which is often known as simply ‘chugen’, originated from Taoism, suggests the author over at Japan Adventure, with people typically giving gifts in the summer - to their boss, relatives, home doctors, and teachers.
The custom was combined with the Japanese tradition of memorial services for ancestors, states the site, which went hand in hand with gift-giving.
As is the case with oseibo, gifts are typically wrapped with ‘noshigami’, a piece of paper used to wrap gifts on ceremonial occasions such as these. The paper would feature a ribbon in the middle, the word ‘ochugen’ or ‘oseibo’ on the upper half, and the name of the recipient on the bottom.
Above: a Made in Japan gift set, featuring five cups in beautiful earthy tones
What about ochugen and oseibo etiquette; is there anything to be mindful of?
Absolutely! Again, Japan Adventure offers some advice, including when – and crucially, what (and what not) to gift.
Food is a sure-fire winner, suggests the site, so if you’re heading to Japan over the festive season and would like to partake in ‘oseibo’, why not gift something homemade? You could pair your present with one of our stunning foodie gift sets.
Below, we provide some ideas...
Psychedelic '70s Four-piece Bowl Set
Designed to cheer up any dining table - and add joy to December gift-giving - these bold and colourful '70s bowls feature lively patterns and are suitable for use during any occasion.
Why not pair this gift with some homemade ramen? Or present your recipient with these bowls and this popular ramen cookbook.
Kouchayou Incense and Flower Gift Set Matcha
Have you ever laid eyes on a more stunning gift? We're not sure we have. For the keen tea drinker, it's a must - and it comes all boxed up, beautifully presented and ready to gift to someone special.
Surprise someone with this set and provide some traditional Japanese cake (homemade, of course) with it. But only if you're feeling adventurous enough to make it.
and finally...
Traditional Patterned Square Sauce Dish Boxset
This makes a great stocking filler, since it should fit snugly inside and it's well priced for a present idea featuring four mini gifts. Small but perfectly formed, these dishes are 9cm in diameter and are as practical as they are pretty - find them here.
Feeling inspired to give a gift to someone you care about? Gift-giving doesn’t just light them up, it puts a smile on your face too.
Plus, right now’s the perfect time to stock up on those gifts; our Black Friday sale is on (information correct as of 21 November 2024) and you can bag 20% off everything – browse some beautiful Japanese-inspired gift ideas.
Until next time…