omiyage

One thing that is popular in Japan is gift-giving. Whenever you go on trips around Japan, there are many souvenir shops. Most rest stops along the highway strategically position their toilets at the backs of their shops. This is so that you'll have to look at their wares before going to use their potties. Most of these shops have food items and trinkets--so, there is always something to bring back for a family member or friend or for yourself.

This custom is also followed whenever Japanese go abroad, too.

Take for example these chocolates Satoshi received from staff members in his department who went to Europe. These chocolates are by Lindt, Storz and Milky Way.

Japanese also love to give take-home gifts at formal parties or events--kind of like the goodie bags we used to get at birthday parties when we were kids.

Here are some things that Satoshi received when he attended two Australian and New Zealand airline parties.

A Jurlique Rosewater gift set.

A bottle of 2005 Chardonnay by Penfolds in SE Australia. This wine is in their Rawson's Retreat line.

And a bottle of 2005 Sauvignon Blanc by Palliser Estate in Martinbourough, New Zealand.

Hope you enjoy the weekend!