Guides & Advice : Traveler Advice : Tips & Advice Home : International Travel

Choosing the Right Gift for Business Associates in Japan

Yes, by all means bring presents. While the Japanese have a penchant for gift giving, it's important to understand the proper protocols behind this centuries-deep custom: In Japan, an exchange of gifts symbolizes gratitude and respect--two things that you would be smart to express in any important business meeting. Keep in mind that as a Westerner, you will be given a little slack when it comes to gift giving and receiving.

What to Give

  • Anything that's hard to come by in Japan, such as Western gourmet goods, fine coffees, and top-shelf liquor and wine (speak to your airline representative about carry-on restrictions concerning food items).

  • Handicraft items native to a specific region of the United States, such as silver jewelry from the Southwest or hand-woven Shaker baskets from New England.

  • Products bearing distinguished brand names such as Nordstrom, Brooks Brothers, Levi Strauss, Nike, Tiffany, and the like.

  • Gifts having to do with your business associate's personal interests, such as an autographed baseball for a fan of the game, or an assortment of commemorative stamps for a collector.

What Not to Give

  • Anything used for cutting, such as letter openers, scissors, or knives--in Japan, such items signify the severing of a relationship.

  • Yellow and white chrysanthemums, which are reserved for funerals (in fact, you might want to stay away from flowers altogether, as they are generally presented at times of illness, death, or courting).

  • Gifts that consist of four items (an odd-numbered set of five is best), as the number four is associated with death.

  • Cash or most items emblazoned with your company's logo. Exceptions to the logo rule include trinkets such as caps, T-shirts, notepads, etc. These things may be presented as souvenirs--not gifts. Also welcome are company calendars or datebooks, which are popular New Year's gifts at many Japanese firms.

Once you've purchased an appropriate gift, be sure to take care in wrapping it. It's a good idea to avoid white paper, as the color is associated with death. (Also, resist sending Christmas cards in red envelopes, since funeral notices are often printed in red.) Gifts should be wrapped in solid-colored or simple-patterned paper, and ribbons are not necessary. To be on the safe side, seek out the help of a gift-wrapping service in your hotel or in a Japanese department store. Then, carry the wrapped gift in an unpretentious shopping bag.

Wait until the end of your visit to hand over the gift(s). Be subtle, but let the recipient know you'd like to give him or her a small token of gratitude. Or, if the gift is for several people, let the group know so everyone can be assembled. Convey a sense of humility by commenting on the insignificance of the gift. Then give (or receive) your gift with both hands. Don't expect the recipient to open the gift in your presence, as it's customary to wait until the gift-giver is out of sight.

If you follow these simple tips, we're sure your business will go swimmingly.

Related Links

More Gift-Giving Dos and Taboos

   
International Travel
Tips & Advice
Information on the Euro

Africa

Asia

Central America

Caribbean

Australia/South Pacific

South America

Middle East

Europe

North America

Embassies and Consulates--A Little Piece of the United States Abroad

Choosing the Right Gift for Business Associates in Japan

Getting Through Customs

Expediting Your Passport Application Process

Handling Cash When Traveling Overseas