Osaka Travel Forum

I will be in Osaka and understand that I should give a gift to host/hostess what type of gift is appropriate? I am so clueless. This is a trip that is sort of business. Can someone advise? And do I give a gift everyday to them? HELP!! Confused in the USA!!

The major problem with gifts in Japan is that anyone you give a gift to will feel obligated to return a gift of greater value! It is a stinker of a problem.

Generally, as I understand it, it is the host that gifts the visitor.

I had one situation where I really wanted to give a gift to a hostess but I didn't want to obligate her in any way. I waited until I left and sent flowers on the same day from a different city.

If it is a business trip, and if you know someone who has visited the same people/company, it may be worth asking that person how they worked it out.

Oh yes, in Japan the wrapping is almost more important than the gift itself.

Thank you so much for the advice. I am actually in the process of asking people from my company. I also read about the wrapping as well and not to expect the gift to be opened in your presence, no red or white and use both hands:-) Thanks so much!!

Hello: Check this website. I used this site to know more about the culture. Just scroll down and look for the Japanese section.

But as a general tip based on my interaction with the Japanese (Business and Friends). Gift giving is all about friendship and a step for business relationship

(1) Good Gift presentation/package is a must.
(2) Proper timing to give the gift and letting your host know ahead of time
(3) Symbolism so like pairs is lucky, 4 is not.
(4) Nice to know "Hajimemashite Dozo Yoroshiku" How are you and please to meet you. Can also mean. How are you and please take care of me.

http://www.internationalbusinesscenter.org/international_business_gifts_greetings.html

Cherr-Thank you so much! A group of us are being recognized for an award in Japan--and I work for the sister company here in the States so I don't want to be disrespectful and be caught without an appropriate gift. Thanks again for the link too!

How wonderful. you will enjoy Japan for sure. good luck on your trip!

Cheers,
Cher

Hi, Gift giving is a part of our culture, and small gifts are always welcomed. The size and the type of the gift depend on the relationship, etc., but in general, a box of chocolates or cookies for the office, and something from your country (I know, "made in USA" is hard to find even in US) for the host/hostess would work. If he/she drinks, a bottle of whiskey or wine would make a good gift, too.

-Motoko-

You are over thinking it. First off you aren't Japanese and there isn't any expectation for you to perform to Japanese custom. These people don't live in a medieval world where they don't know what is going on in the broad world around them. Secondly, if you are coming from the US and you warp the gift up, you are asking for it to be pulled apart, even if it is in your suitcase. I would suggest that you choose a locally produced specialty food item, from around the area where you live. Gifts of food items are common. Don't choose something that is to expensive, make the cost reasonable so that they won't feel uncomfortable. Some suggestions, depending on where you live, are salmon from the North West, Maple syrup if you are in the North East, Bourbon if you are in Kentucky, vacuum packed beef if you are in Texas, etc...

Oh, and just one gift, given when you meet them the first time.

Motoko--thank you for the sweet answer! I appreciate it.
Sfumatopants-thank you too. Not so sweet but probably very true. I just thought it was the utmost compliment to show someone respect and kindness by knowing about their culture versus that of my own:-) So thanks!!!