If you’re the type of person who likes to purchase a souvenir or two when traveling, you’ll be pleased to know that Japan has plenty of amazing options for you to select from. Below, we’re going to take a look at some of the best souvenirs from Japan you should purchase while visiting:
There really is only one place to begin when discussing the best souvenirs in Japan, and this is Maneki Neko, otherwise known as lucky cats. These cats don’t tend to be very big, and they don’t cost much either, making them the perfect gift.
Maneki Neko literally translates to ‘welcoming cat.’ These cats are statues that represent a seated cat that raises one of its paws at you. This is deemed a lucky charm, and you’ll find them all over Japan. These cats tend to be in stores across the country, as they’re believed to attract many customers for the store owners.
You can get Maneki Neko in a wide range of colors, from gold to black. However, if you want to go down the traditional route, opt for a white cat, as this is a symbol of good luck.
There are two types of folding fans in Japan; sensu and uchiwa. Both make incredible gifts for loved ones. Also, if you’re visiting Japan during the warmer months, it certainly helps to have one of these fans handy so that you can keep yourself cool.
One of the best things about these folding fans is that they come in a whole host of stunning designs, from anime-related patterns to traditional patterns. There is something for everyone, so you should have no trouble finding something that’s perfect for you!
There is also something for all budgets. This includes cheap folding fans at 100 yen stores, as well as more expensive and elaborate handmade fans.
Ukiyo-e prints
Next, we have Ukiyo-e prints, which are conventional Japanese woodblock prints that came onto the scene during the 17th century.
These blocks have images of seascapes and mountains, with one of the most famous being the Ukiyo-e print of Hokusai’s great wave.
This unique form of art is incredibly popular as gifts and souvenirs. In fact, there are even a number of museums where you can view ukiyo-e, including the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum, Hokusai museum, and the Ota Memorial Museum of Art.
Japanese pottery
Japanese ceramics can make the perfect gift or treat for yourself. You can find pottery in a wide range of colors and shapes, boasting unique Japanese designs.
From sake pitchers and cups to small rice bowls, there is something for everyone. The texture is really noticeable with Japanese ceramics, making them extra special.
If you’re not going to have enough room in your case or you fear that your Japanese pottery won’t withstand the journey, a lot of stores in Japan offer overseas mailing services, so this is something worth considering if you spot an item you like.
You can find powdered, matcha green tea at tea vendors in department stores across the country. This is a lightweight souvenir you can use to make hot or cold tea. You can also add matcha to chocolate, cake, pancakes, candy, custard, and much more.
There are so many different places across Japan that have Matcha-inspired treats for you to enjoy.
As tea is a massive part of Japan’s culture, Matcha is an excellent souvenir to take home with you. You can also spend some time learning about the traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and the conventional methods used to prepare Matcha tea.
Kimonos make the perfect gift, as they are one of the most well-known symbols of traditional Japanese culture. The price of a kimono can begin in the region of ¥20,000 for a cotton kimono, reaching a lot more for kimonos made from silk. You’ll also be able to get your hands on lovely secondhand kimonos for a cheap price, particularly in the flea markets of Kyoto.
If you’ve never heard of a yukata before, this is a conventional Japanese garment that is worn as a casual kimono during the summer months. Yukata sets are very popular in tourist places, such as Kyoto, Akihabara, and Asakusa. The set consists of a yukata, geta (the shoes), humo (yukata strings), and obio (a belt). Some even come with a small bag too.
Daruma dolls
Next, we have daruma dolls, which are considered good luck charms in Japan. It’s believed that they can make your wishes a reality. Who wouldn’t want to take something like this back to their homeland?
Daruma dolls come in many different styles and designs. The concept here is that you should draw a left eye on the daruma doll while imagining your dream at the same time. You then draw the right eye on the doll once your dream has become a reality.
For those who are unaware of the history, Daruma was the Indian monk who founded the Chinese Zen sect. It is believed that his continual sitting zazen style resulted in his legs and arms falling off. This is because he sat in the same position, facing the wall, for nine years to achieve satori or enlightenment.
Last but not least, we cannot mention Japanese souvenirs without discussing chopsticks. Chopsticks, otherwise known as Hashi, are one of the most popular souvenirs from Japan, which probably doesn’t come as much of a surprise!
You can find chopsticks in many different stores, ranging from mass-produced factory chopsticks to high-quality, handmade chopsticks. It’s even possible to get personalized chopsticks with your name on them.
You won’t want to leave without purchasing these souvenirs from Japan
It’s always nice to take a little piece of your trip home with you, and the souvenirs we have mentioned above certainly give you the ability to do so. From traditional chopsticks to green tea, you don’t need to spend a lot to bring something special home.
