Japan is full of unique things that can only be found there, which makes it a treasure trove when it comes to buying gifts and souvenirs to remember your trip by.
These are some of the best souvenirs to buy when in Japan.
Yukata
Japan is known for its beautiful and elaborate kimonos. A great souvenir to buy in Japan is a yukata, which is a casual kimono. Yukatas are made from breathable fabric and are easier to wear than a formal kimono. You can find yukatas sold along with a sash and shoes, called obi and geta respectively.
Omamori Charms
Another unique souvenir to buy in Japan are omamori charms. Omamori are lucky Japanese amulets that are thought to protect the person they belong to. The colorful charms are sold at many Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines around Japan and are commonly given as a “lucky charm” as a gift.
Daruma Figurines
Daruma figurines are large doll heads that are made of a special type of Japanese paper and represent the ganbaru spirit of perseverance. You are meant to paint in one eye on your daruma figurine and after you achieve a special goal you have in mind, you paint the other eye to make your daruma complete. Daruma figurines are a great souvenir to buy in Japan because they symbolize never giving up on your goals.
Green Tea
The Japanese are known for their love of tea and elaborate tea ceremonies. So it’s no surprise that green tea is one of the best souvenirs to buy in Japan. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony is made with matcha. Matcha is made from green tea leaves that have been ground into a fine powder and tastes delicate but sweet.
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Koinobori
Koinobori is a souvenir that is truly unique to Japan. Koinobori are streamers that are shaped like a carp and are traditionally used to celebrate Kodomo No Hi, which is Children’s Day in Japan. The decorative streamers symbolize a bright future and they are so popular as souvenirs that they are available year-round.
Sensu
Sensu are beautifully-decorated folding fans that originated in Japan. They are available in different colors and patterns and are made from a range of materials from bamboo to elegant silk. Sensu symbolize prosperity and wealth because they expand in size when they are opened.
Wagasa
Wagasa are decorative oil-paper umbrellas. They are commonly found at Japanese festivals and weddings and they also make a great souvenir to bring home. The round shape when the wagasa is opened symbolizes happiness and a complete life.
Chopsticks
Chopsticks are another great souvenir to buy in Japan. You can find authentic and unique chopsticks in almost any color or design you like. Authentic chopsticks make a wonderful keepsake from your visit to Japan.
Tsurushibina Dolls
Tsurushibina dolls are small, hand-made dolls that are sewn into different motifs and hung together. Tsurushibina dolls are typically in shapes of plants and animals, with each doll symbolizing different auspicious beliefs. The elaborately decorated dolls were originally used for the Girls’ Day festival, called Hinamatsuri, but are now also popular souvenirs to buy in Japan.
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Related reading: Best souvenirs to Buy in Buenos Aires
