Gift-giving is an essential aspect of Japanese culture, which symbolises respect and social harmony. There are many situations in which you can and should give gifts in Japan – omiyage is one of these. Although often translated as ‘souvenir’, it’s so much more than that. Let’s explore the Japanese custom of omiyage and recommend the best spots near OEH Osaka English House to buy it!
What is omiyage?
The History of Omiyage
The practice of omiyage is hundreds of years old, and it is associated with sacred journeys in Japan. Miyage were shrine-related items that pilgrims would bring back home to share the blessings of their travels.
Over time, shops and stations started selling local specialties for travellers. Now, the concept is known as omiyage, literally meaning ‘local product’ or ‘product of the land’. It is a longstanding Japanese tradition that emphasizes sharing the spirit of one’s journey and fostering social relationships.
To learn more about the history of omiyage, head over to:
https://allabout-japan.com/en/article/2505/
What does Omiyage symbolise?
As we saw earlier, omiyage is a gift or souvenir given to someone upon returning from a journey. Presenting an item that represents a piece of the place you visited shows that you still thought about those you care for while you were away.
The gift itself is not as important as the meaning behind it – omiyage strengthens personal connections. For instance, sharing local delicacies with co-workers can be a way to thank them for their support during your absence. Or sharing regional tea with family members serves as a reminder that you thought of them while you were away.
Omiyage etiquette
Now that we’ve explored the origins of omiyage, let’s take a closer look at how you can select and give the perfect items!
Choosing the perfect omiyage
There are many unspoken rules in Japan to keep in mind, including when choosing gifts for others. It is important to choose something small and inexpensive because a lavish gift may be interpreted as a burden. The thought behind the gift matters far more than the cost.
It is also recommended to seek out regional specialities, since omiyage should make up a small part of your journey. Edible snacks are a perfect option because they are inexpensive and convenient, especially when individually wrapped.
However, try to avoid fresh produce, especially if you have a long return journey ahead. You can give non-edible gifts, but it is best to do so only for close friends and family – local crafts or omamori are great options for loved ones. In general, though, sticking to small, well-wrapped snacks is a safe bet for everyone.
When selecting and giving omiyage, try to avoid unlucky numbers such as 4 (shi/四), as it sounds like death (shi/死). Make sure you buy enough items for everyone, and avoid homemade gifts, as they do not reflect your journey. Inexpensive and local items that are well-presented are all you need to give the perfect omiyage to those back home!
Presenting your gifts
The presentation of omiyage is just as important as the item itself, so make sure to pay attention to how you wrap your gifts! Many shops will sell omiyage that are already contained in beautiful boxes or wrappers. The appearance of your gifts symbolises the thought and care you put into choosing the perfect items.
When giving omiyage to co-workers or loved ones, there are a few things to bear in mind. Humility is very important in Japan, so make sure to downplay the significance of your gift by using phrases like ‘it’s not much but…’ or ‘this is a small gift for you’.
Also, remember to present your gift with both hands to show respect. You might notice that the recipient declines the gift at first, but be sure to gently insist that they accept – refusing gifts one or two times at first is very common in Japan.
To learn more about omiyage etiquette, check out this video:
Where to buy omiyage near OEH Osaka English House
Using what we have learnt about selecting and presenting omiyage, let’s take a look at the best spots in Hirakata to buy gifts! OEH Osaka English House is the perfect place to find omiyage, as there are so many wonderful shops nearby.
Hirakata T-SITE is just a 12-minute walk from OEH, and there are plenty of places to buy local specialities. Hirakatashi Station is also just a 10-minute walk away, so OEH is very well connected to other cities, such as Osaka, where you can buy regional specialties.
Here are some recommendations for where to buy omiyage in and around Hirakata!
Spots in Hirakata
Hirakata T-SITE may be famous for its impressive TSUTAYA bookstore, but there is actually a lot more to uncover, including specialty sweets and handicraft shops!
On the fourth floor, LEAF is a gorgeous spot to discover unique Japanese ceramics, jewellery, and more. You can even find omiyage already wrapped, such as tea and chocolates, which is super convenient!
Miyakomatsuan sells original ‘Anko sweets’ made with bean paste. For example, you can purchase a pretty box of individually wrapped yokan (jelly confectionery) made with traditional Japanese flavours like chestnut. This shop is on the first floor of Hirakata T-SITE.
Keihan Department Store is connected to Hirakatashi Station. The basement food floor is a great spot to pick up snacks such as tasty individually wrapped candies, and it’s only a 10-minute walk away from OEH!
FAQs: Japanese omiyage gift-giving customs
Modesty and thoughtfulness are far more important than the cost of your gifts! Around ¥100-200 is perfectly acceptable for co-workers, neighbours, or acquaintances, although you can spend more for close friends and family.
Osaka is famous for takoyaki (fried octopus balls), and many shops will sell takoyaki-themed items such as savoury chips. Don’t forget about the iconic 551 Horai Pork Buns, which can be found all over Osaka including at stations and Kansai International Airport.
Giving a small gift from your home country to your host in Japan can be a great way to show gratitude for their hospitality, but this is called temiyage rather than omiyage.
Try to give out your omiyage as soon as possible after you have arrived home. At work, leaving your gift in a shared space with a note is a practical and kind option, as it avoids disrupting others’ work.
Make sure that your gifts are beautifully presented, for example in a pretty gift box or bag. Present the item with both hands, and make sure to stay humble by using phrases like ‘it’s just a little something…’.
