10 must-buy souvenirs in Japan

Japan is a country that touchingly honors its customs and traditions. Therefore, Japanese souvenirs are now almost the same as they were 10 and 20 years ago. A list of 10 souvenirs that must be taken away from the Land of the Rising Sun.

1. Maneki neko. A cat that calls for happiness.
Everywhere in Japan, from shops and restaurants to banks and offices, you are greeted by a statue of a “luring cat”. This maneki neko, one of the most famous good luck charms in Japan, is believed to bring good luck to business and increase wealth.
They are also used to decorate the interior of the house, since cats can be made in any size and from any material. You can buy them at any gift shop, but it is best to do it at Gotoku-ji Temple, the birthplace of this talisman.

2. Tenugui – a rectangular piece of fabric with an ornament or graphic image.
Tenugui is one of the most popular souvenirs from Japan and is so versatile it’s a must have. Tenugui is a thin rectangular cotton towel approximately 90 cm long printed with various motifs (geometric, floral or ukiyo-e patterns). It can be used as a towel, gift wrap or decorate a room with it as a tablecloth or panel.

3. Yukata – summer cotton kimono.
Yukata is a casual, lightweight cotton kimono that is often worn during summer festivals or in ryokans (Japanese-style inns).
Clue:
Yukata are sold in all souvenir shops, but if you want a quality kimono, it is better to go to a regular clothing store or department store – there is more choice and higher quality of the fabric used.

4. Geta or Zōri – traditional Japanese shoes.
Yukata is usually worn with geta, traditional Japanese shoes that look like flip flops and wooden clogs at the same time. If wooden geta are too much for your delicate feet, you can opt for zōri, a more formal and comfortable shoe that also pairs well with kimonos.

5. Japanese fan.
During the summer, on Japanese streets, trains and restaurants, you will see a lot of people using hand fans. They can be folding (ōgi) or rigid flat fans (uchiwa). Hand fans are so popular in Japan it’s impossible leave Japan without taking at least one with you.

6. Wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrella).
Japan is famous for the ancient traditions of making and using umbrellas. The traditional Japanese umbrella is used not only as protection from the rain, but also during the tea ceremony and also theatrical performances.

7. Furin – air bell.
The furin sound is one of the most specific sounds in Japan, which is heard not only in traditional rooms, but also in modern buildings. Originating from the Edo period, furin is a glass or metal bell that is usually hung in front of a window or door. Its sound in the wind announces a cool breeze.

8. Ukiyo-e paintings.
The ukiyo-e, “floating world paintings”, appeared in the 17th century and are still extremely popular today. These paintings depict landscapes, historical scenes, famous actors or sumo wrestlers. This is one of the main genres of Japanese art, which, of course, should be in the collection of every traveler.

9. Daruma doll.
Depicting Bodhidharma (the founder of Zen Buddhism), Daruma is a spherical doll, usually of a red color, it serves as an amulet that brings good luck, prosperity and strength to achieve goals. Daruma are sold without traced eyes, they must be drawn by the owner of the doll – the first eye during making a wish, and the second when it is fulfilled.

10. Japanese sticks.
Traditional Japanese chopsticks are made from lacquered wood and come in a variety of sizes (usually for men, women, and children). They are very different from Chinese sticks – they are shorter and have a more rounded shape. Sticks are often sold in sets, and as decorative objects they are often beautifully ornamented. This is a great souvenir for those who love Japanese cuisine.