Gift-giving rules for Japanese dinner host

Gift-giving rules for Japanese dinner host - Close-up Photo of Sushi Served on Table

I'm invited by a Japanese family for a home cooked dinner at their house. I'm wondering, given the Japanese gift-giving culture, what is appropriate to bring with me in this case and if it's any different than the "regular" gift-giving advice found online ?

Back home I'd bring a bottle of wine or dessert but I'm not sure it wouldn't offend the host. Should I bring something for everyone or is a single gift enough ?

This wasn't originally planned so I don't have anything from my hometown on me to offer them






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Gift-giving rules for Japanese dinner host - Delicious sushi with raw fish



What are the rules when Japanese people give gifts?

The correct Japanese etiquette is to present and receive gifts with both hands, just like when you'd give your business card. To keep the image of modesty, before accepting a gift it is polite to refuse at least once or twice before accepting.

What is a traditional Japanese gift when invited over for dinner?

In most countries when visiting someone's home for the first time, it's customary to bring a basket of fruit, a bottle of wine, or a dessert. Japan is no different. When arriving at a Japanese home, bringing along a small gift, called omiyage in Japanese, of snacks or fruit will be much appreciated.

What is the tradition of gift giving in Japan?

Traditionally in Japan, there are two main gifting occasions in each year: Ochugen and Oseibo. 'Ochugen' occurs during summer, in the middle of the year, and gifts are given as a sign of gratitude to others. 'Oseibo' occurs in December and is seen as a sign of indebtedness.

When you meet someone are you expected to bring a gift in Japan?

Omiyage and temiyage When foreign visitors meet friends or a host family in Japan, it is not imperative for them to bring gifts, but it is a nice gesture. Recommended gift items include food, drinks or other products from your home country.



How to understand the fundamental idea of Japanese Gift Culture and pick the best gift!




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Pixabay, Chevanon Photography, sl wong, Ryutaro Tsukata