Okurimono Japan
Ukiyo-e style illustration: a person kneels waiting at a wooden gate, covered in cobwebs, while a tiny Edo courier runs along a distant mountain road carrying a red package.
Illustration: Okurimono Japan

Gift Truths No.4

Refreshed the tracking page 40 times today. Still "In transit." It’s been saying that for 6 days.

Parcels from Japan often go quiet between leaving Japan and landing at customs. Order early, and don’t promise anyone a delivery date.

Where this came from

The article behind it.

Buying guideSep 16, 2026

Ordering a Gift from Japan in Time for Christmas: What Actually Decides When It Arrives

Will a gift ordered from Japan arrive by Christmas? What the shops actually state about shipping, last year's holiday schedule, who pays the duties, and why you should open the box the day it lands.