Souvenirs from Japan?

Nagoyankee · (#1 (**permalink**))

What would you like to buy for souvenirs if you were to travel to Japan in the near future? They can be for yourself, your family or friends.

If you have already been in Japan, what did you buy for souvenirs? Do you have any advice for the first-timers?

aikochan86 · (#2 (**permalink**))

My advice is not to go over the top. Unless you're buying something for someone crazed about Japan, most people don't really care what they get as long as they get something. The first time I went I spent too much money on things that other people will put in a drawer somewhere and not enough on things for me to treasure.

Asakusa is a great place for buying souvenirs. Last time I went to a 100yen shop and got lots of lollies and gift bags. In each gift bag I put a handful of lollies and a nice fan, toy, chopsticks or purse etc. It's all about presentation. ^_^

samurai007 · (#3 (**permalink**))

For myself, I collected little statues from each place I went in Japan. They are small, durable, and uniquely Japanese. I have everything from Buddhas to Geishas to the 7 Lucky Gods to Neo and oni. I also have a few black velvet hanging wall scrolls!

For omiyage, I'd buy local food that could be shared.

For family, I bought silk yukatas and some nice little items, like a lacquered jewelry box and fans.

MMM · (#4 (**permalink**))

There are always great food wrapped for gifts at the airport. Food it good because it doesn't clutter up the house.

Housetek · (#5 (**permalink**))

The first 2 times i got random gadgets and postcards from Don Quixote.

Fans/keychains/bandanas with kanji/wooden shoes/charms from temple gift shops etc etc.

the next 6 or so times i went, i just didnt bother =P

go for cheap light things. over do it and you'll pay big time at the airport if you go over the weight limit

Omaki · (#6 (**permalink**))

what's the weight limit at the airport? I'm thinking of picking up some clothes and a few art books.

MMM · (#7 (**permalink**))

Quote:

Originally Posted by Omaki

what's the weight limit at the airport? I'm thinking of picking up some clothes and a few art books.

I want to say 40kg per suitcase.

Nagoyankee · (#8 (**permalink**))

Thank you, guys, for the responses so far!

I happen to be old enough to remember the days when the exchange rate was still 360 yen per U.S. dollar. Back then foreign tourists stayed at the most expensive hotels and they always sat in the Green Cars of Shinkansen trains. I'm sure they bought all the pricey stuff in Japan as well.

Now I often see tourists shopping at 100-yen stores and actually eating at Yoshinoya. What a change! In a sense, I still can't believe this is happening even though I see it almost on a weekly basis. Old images die hard...

Diclonius · (#9 (**permalink**))

When I go to Japan I plan to buy japanese teaware along with some fine green tea. I've heard Kyoto is one of the best places for this.
And I would probably buy some anime related things as well (dvds/cd's or statues)

...

Magen · (#10 (**permalink**))

I'm buying me a Tanuki at a Kyoto pottery shop.