General rules for Japanese gift giving?
• Do not out-gift the Japanese. Gift giving is more their custom than ours. Allow the Japanese to derive satisfaction from his giving and avoid obligating him by giving a more expensive gift. • Present the gift when the recipient is alone, unless you have gifts for everyone present. • Consumable gifts and small conversation pieces are usually appreciated. These include liquor, candy, cakes and books. • In general, the Japanese do not care for bourbon. Scotch is preferred. • Always bring a gift when visiting a home. • Wrap non-logo gift. Avoid bold colors, dark gray, black and black and white combinations. The black and white gift-wrapping combination is reserved for funerals. • Do not open a gift in front of a Japanese counterpart unless you ask if he would like you to do so. If he does not open your gift, then your option is clearly to do likewise. • The latest in American toys are usually appreciated by Japanese children. • Avoid ribbon and bows as part of gift wrapping. Bows as we k
