Okurimono Japan
Ukiyo-e style illustration: a recipient ignores the opened gift on the tatami and lovingly folds the red furoshiki wrapping cloth, while the giver watches deadpan.
Illustration: Okurimono Japan

Gift Truths No.5

Wrapping took 20 minutes. Unwrapping took 2 seconds. They kept the paper.

In Japan, the wrapping is part of the gift. Some people fold it and keep it — which means the 20 minutes counted after all.

Where this came from

The article behind it.

StoryAug 22, 2026

What Is Edo Kiriko? Japan's Cut Glass Craft, Explained

Edo Kiriko is Tokyo's traditional cut-glass craft, dated to 1834. Its history, the traditional patterns and what they're named after, how a piece is cut, how it differs from Satsuma Kiriko, and what to look for when you buy, from the Edo Kiriko Cooperative and Kagami Crystal.

The gift

The ones I’d actually send.