Okurimono Japan
Ukiyo-e style illustration: two people in kimono bow deeply to each other on tatami at the same moment, each pushing a box forward, with a tall stack of gift boxes topped by a red ribbon between them.
Illustration: Okurimono Japan

Gift Truths No.15

For some occasions in Japan, a gift is answered with a return gift. Now you need a thank-you for the thank-you.

In Japan, some gifts come back as a return gift. It's not a trade; it's a way of saying the first one was received. Then someone has to say thank you again.

Where this came from

The article behind it.

Buying guideSep 13, 2026

Edo Kiriko Gifts by Occasion (2026): What to Give for a Wedding, an Anniversary, a 60th Birthday or a Retirement

Matching Edo Kiriko cut glass by Kagami Crystal to the occasion: a pair of sake cups for a wedding, a black cup and carafe for an anniversary, a chrysanthemum-pattern glass for a 60th birthday, a rock glass for a retirement, and a small tumbler for a thank-you. The patterns' traditional associations, the box, and how to order from Japan.

The gift

The ones I’d actually send.