food souvenirs

Snacks have been pivotal in showing the constant creativity within Japanese culture and have had a deep historical significance as well. For example, take a look at the role of snacks in Sado or the Japanese tea ceremony as well as the role of wagashi in […]

Okay, you’re in Japan having the time of your life. Seeing some of the most beautiful sights, wandering through historical neighborhoods and sampling some of the tastiest food you’ve ever had. Now, at the end of the trip, you're excited to tell your friends and family […]

Okinawa, with its turquoise seas and white sand beaches, touches the heart of anyone who visits. Whether you’re strolling down Kokusai Dori or you’re dipping your feet in the seas of Ishigaki, you want to take a slice of the Okinawan lifestyle back to reality. While Kariyushi (Okinawan aloha shirts) and island made jewelry are lovely baubles, I have found that the best way to show those back home how wonderful a culture is, is to bring back a little taste of their local delicacies…

Kyoto has innumerable souvenirs to choose from. Yet, one souvenir continues to outrank the rest. Yatsuhashi is one of the most popular souvenirs from Kyoto. Some studies have shown that over 40% of the tourists visiting Kyoto, Japanese or otherwise, take yatsuhashi back with them as a souvenir for their loved ones.

Knives. One of the top selling souvenirs people want from Japan. Japanese made knives come from a long history of sword making passed down generation to generation. These knives are skillfully handcrafted, beautiful, and highly specialized.

Mayonnaise is never far away from a meal in Japan. Whether it’s attached to your convenience store bento (lunch box), on a side dish at lunch, or a pocket size bottle called, ‘My Mayo’, bought from a variety store, it’s a daily condiment.