Whenever you go on a trip, you buy something to bring home as a token of memories for the time you spend on a particular place. In Japan, omiyage is a gift or souvenir that you give to friends, coworkers and family when you return from a trip. It isn’t just a souvenir but a custom and culture. Omiyage represents an entire culture of give-and-take.
Are you planning to visit the Land of the Rising Sun? Here are some of the popular omiyage that can be your go-to souvenir when you visit Japan.
Hato Sable
Who wouldn’t want a delicacy that is both rich in taste and tradition, yet affordable?
With this precious buttery cookie gem, one will be able to experience a taste where you can never be tired of. This is the reason why, not only visitors and foreigners love this delicacy, but also locals. It’s known for its legendary dove shape and palm size that has been manufactured since 1984 by a confectionery maker named Toshimaya. Hato Sable can be easily spotted at Kamakura because it’s one of the region’s most popular souvenirs and one of the classic souvenirs in Japan.
Tokyo Banana
This cute souvenir will make your family and friends say “Yum!”
Tokyo Banana is a fluffy, cute, custard-filled cake which is one of the most popular sweets, and became the cities’ flagship omiyage. It became famous for its banana shape and variety of flavors. Tokyo Banana has been synonymous with Japanese souvenirs to many foreigners. It has been the most iconic of all the cakes that can be bought as your go-to souvenirs in the capital city of Japan. You won’t have any trouble in finding this gold because gift shops and even convenience stores are selling Tokyo Banana.
Shiroi Koibito
Who would say no when you receive a bow with two thin cookies with white chocolate sandwich layered in it? Plus the gentle flavor and soft yet crisp texture of Shiroi Koibito that melts in your mouth. This will surely make your heart skip a beat.
This combination of langue de chat cookie and white chocolate that is loved by many is originated in Hokkaido and manufactured by the Japanese confectionery company, Ishiya. It’s known for its “White Lover” branding packed in its signature green wrapping and packed in a box that portrays Hokkaido’s mount Rishiri. It actually has two hypes: Shiroi Koibito White with white chocolate filling and Shiroi Koibito Black with milk chocolate filling.
Nama Chocolate
Chocolate lovers will definitely love this fine line of chocolate. It has a melt-in-your mouth texture that is simply irresistible.
Royce has made a name for itself for its first-class and high quality produce products. From its luxurious packaging to its chocolate that is so rich and creamy, there is no doubt that it’s a sure-fire omiyage that you can buy and bring back to your family and friends. Their Nama chocolate is the most popular for its combination of selected chocolate and fresh cream with a hint of prestige liqueurs that give it a velvety, featherlight texture that melts in your mouth. Everyone who will receive and eat this chocolate will experience the enjoyment of this unique and refined flavor.
Potato Farm
Don’t you have a sweet tooth? No worries, a snack company, Calbee has a collection of potato snacks, named Potato Farm, that has plenty of crunch and flavor.
Calbee Potato Farm is made with Hokkaido potatoes, which are cut without peeling so the flavor of the skin is retained. It also comes in easy pack options so everyone who will receive this can easily munch the goodness any time. They are very addictive because of its crispiness and lightiness, making it a great gift not just for your family and friends but even for yourself.
Others might perceive it as an obligation, or something not so important to do for your colleagues. But omiyage, for some, continues to flourish as the tradition of giving out souvenirs.