Omiyage is just not a memento.
No less than, that’s not the way it’s handled in Japan.
It’s a Japanese present; extra particularly, it’s a instrument for smoothing out human relationships.
Since I began working in Japan, I’ve felt this firsthand many instances.
An omiyage present expresses gratitude, eases awkwardness, and generally even apologizes instead of phrases. It’s a bit mysterious, nevertheless it positively works.
The place did omiyage come from within the first place?
The origins lie within the pilgrimages of the Edo interval.
Again then, a visit to Ise Grand Shrine was a monumental occasion.
Villagers would pool their cash collectively to ship a consultant on the journey.
Upon returning, that individual would distribute charms or native items.
It was each proof of the journey and an act of sharing.
It was the act of sharing an expertise that solely you had with these round you.
This idea has advanced over time into the omiyage we see in the present day.
In different phrases, whereas it seems to be such as you’re shopping for cookies, you’re really handing over a bit of an expertise.
While you consider it that manner, it makes excellent sense.
Is omiyage actually necessary?
This can be a query I get requested usually.
The reply is: it is determined by the scenario, however within the office, it’s just about important.
While you take time without work, another person covers your work.
Even when nothing is alleged to your face, the burden exists.
Omiyage is a method to softly acknowledge that reality.
I as soon as had a colleague return from an abroad enterprise journey with out bringing something again.
There have been no main points, however the ambiance shifted barely.
I don’t assume it was about their stomachs; it was about recognition.
What about amongst associates?
With associates, there’s a bit extra flexibility.
Nevertheless, the that means stays the identical.
For instance, after visiting a pal’s hometown, you may give them omiyage from your individual area.
It doesn’t have to be costly.
Specificity is what issues.
That deal with sparks a dialog.
It turns into a small bridge connecting one place to a different.
If you happen to skip it, you possibly can generally come throughout as self-centered.
In Japan, outcomes are sometimes prioritized over intentions.
Why is the field so vital?
I used to surprise why individuals in division retailer basements checked out bins so intently.
However the packaging is data.
The place was it purchased?
How a lot thought went into it?
That’s communicated instantly.
There’s additionally a sensible facet: moisture safety, hygiene, and portability.
What began as a necessity for these causes turned an aesthetic.
Pondering of it that manner makes it comprehensible.
Why particular person wrapping is required
The “greatest omiyage” for the office virtually at all times has one situation:
It should be individually wrapped.
A big cake creates issues.
It requires somebody to chop it, somebody to distribute it, and somebody to scrub up.
No person desires that.
I as soon as had a international boss herald an enormous block of high-end chocolate.
I knew it was well-intentioned, however no one might contact it.
Omiyage isn’t about particular person play; it requires a design suited to the group.
Seasons and exclusivity are additionally messages
Cherry blossoms in spring.
Chestnuts and candy potatoes in autumn.
In Japan, a way of the season is, in itself, a type of thoughtfulness.
After which there are regional exclusives.
The place title written on the field is vital.
If you happen to carry a specialty from a unique location, the that means will get blurred.
As a Japanese present concept, it is a level that’s surprisingly straightforward to miss.
How do locals select?
It’s really quite simple.
For whom?
For what number of?
How will it’s carried dwelling?
If you happen to’re not sure, ask the store workers.
Choose the best-seller.
That’s often the suitable reply.
Wagashi (Japanese sweets) for an older boss.
Western-style sweets for a youthful office.
It’s not a tough rule, nevertheless it’s laborious to go incorrect.
The pitfalls of worth, amount, and shelf life
An omiyage present that’s too costly will really make the recipient uncomfortable.
For the workplace, an inexpensive worth vary is greater than sufficient.
Carry a lot.
It’s extra awkward to expire.
Shelf life can also be key.
Japanese sweets with a brief expiration date require excellent timing.
Issues to keep away from
Gadgets you should purchase anyplace.
Robust smells.
Meals that soften simply.
“Gimmick” flavors.
Omiyage is just not an endurance check.
Ideally, it ought to disappear quietly.
The that means is accomplished within the hand-off
Lastly, there’s the hand-off.
Provide it with each palms.
That alone conveys respect.
Add a phrase like, “It’s not a lot, however…”
Briefly clarify the place to procure it.
In the event that they hesitate out of politeness, gently encourage them once more.
Via this collection of actions, the omiyage is full.
It turns into a dialog, not a purchase order.
Since I began pondering this manner, the station cabinets look totally different to me.
It’s not extreme.
It’s a shared vocabulary.
While you perceive omiyage, Japanese relationships turn into somewhat simpler to learn.
It doesn’t must be excellent.
You’re giving kind to the truth that you care.
I imagine that’s the essence of the Japanese present.