Japan is absolutely a dream destination for many travelers who want to discover the beauty of Japanese unique culture and the people here. It definitely gives you a headache when planning where to go, what to eat… that is a normal schedule for every trip. However, thinking about “what to buy as gifts?” for friends, family, relatives, colleagues… is really a true headache.
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So, what is good to buy in Japan, best gifts to buy in Japan and must buy in Japan? Let’s check it out the best things to buy in Japan including famous things to buy in Japan, Japan souvenir items, Japanese gifts, cheap things to buy in Japan, what food to buy in Japan, things you must buy in Japan, cheap and cool things to buy from Japan below.
Actually, you do not need to worry about it, Living Nomads is here to help you deal with that matter. We have rounded up a list of potential gifts for you to choose from. All you need to do is just pick up one of these options below and buy them without further consideration. In that way, you will absolutely have more time enjoying Japan.
Now, check it out top 23+ cool gifts, cheap items and best things to buy in Japan below.
Sakura Matcha Kit Kat
Although KitKat is available nationwide, however, some of the candies’ favors are only available in Japan. The most special favor is Matcha Sakura that is always sought by visitors when traveling to Japan.
What makes this Kitkat even more special is the Kitkat’s packaging in Japan is designed for you to write a message to your friend. It is such a simple and sweet gift (literally and metaphorically) that makes the receivers feel appreciated!
Omamori – Japanese Lucky Charms
On the occasion of the New Year, Japanese often buy Omamori lucky charms as a way of gaining good fortune and protection (“Mamori” means protection, adding “O” to “Omamori” to make the word more formal),
There are many kinds of lucky charms specializing in: study, publicity, fortune, prosperity, love, etc. The lucky charms sold at all of these temples not only bring luck but also become very lovely decoration items. You can buy the lucky charms as gifts for your friends to hang in the house, in a basket, briefcase, and so on.
An unalterable rule is that Omamori lucky charms should not be opened as the Japanese believe that doing so will make luck and protection fly away. You must pay attention and remind your friends too.
Tokyo Banana Cake
Eager to buy a unique gift, you should not miss Tokyo Banana Cake when traveling to Japan. If you have not known what is the perfect blend of soft, fragrance, sweet of a cake then you definitely have to try the Banana Tokyo Cake!
This cake is very hard to find outside of Japan and usually only sold in Tokyo as the maximum expiry date is 1 week and the best is within 2 days. To buy this cake, you should buy in Tokyo and Narita Airport.
Warabi Mochi – Japanese Rice Cake
There are many types of Mochi Cakes, this type of Mochi cake is a soft, jelly-like texture and then covered with matcha powder or soybeans. Warabi Mochi is favored by many tourists.
This is popular throughout Kyoto, you buy Warabi Mochi Cake while wandering around the ancient Kyoto. However, if you can not make time to head to Kyoto, you find them in the supermarkets across Japan, even though the quality is not perfect but still retain the cake’s delicious taste.
Japanese socks
If there are too many “friends” to give gifts, why don’t you simply buy a whole set of cute-shaped socks, they are funny and cheap and importantly easy to be a small gift. Everyone knows the quality of the Japanese is very good, so buy what “Made in Japan” and especially with the interesting shapes, everyone will certainly love them.
Tenugui Craft
Tenugui is a quite versatile item for the Japanese. You can use this small towel for many purposes: to make a handkerchief, to sit on like a carpet, to wrap gifts, to tie your hair, etc