Gifts for a Japanese host family?

Question

I'm going on exchange to Japan next year (2009) for 10 months and i'm wondering what gifts i should give my host family when i first meet them.

I'm from Australia so i'll be bringing plush kangaroos, koalas and things like that to host brothers and sisters but im not sure what i'd give my host parents (or even grandparents!)

Ideas would be GREATLY appreciated.

Answer 1

Something local to your region or country is most appropriate to show them a part of your home as they include you in their home. The plushies for the kids are a great idea, and something more expensive for the parents would be appreciated. I'm not sure what a local speciality for your region would be, but plan to spend about USD30-50 for something nice for the parents (jewelry might not be appropriate until you know them better). You might go for something like wallets or baseball caps for the men or scarves for the women (if you have no local products that you could take). Gourmet edibles/snacks are also very appropriate (like very expensive chocolates or biscuits), etc. Good luck and ENJOY your trip!!!

Answer 2

I would say for the mother nice jewellery - with an Australian theme - opal or similar. Or a woollen scarf/hat set. I saw you had the merino/possum combo like we do in New Zealand, which would be good.

Nice coasters for glasses, good quality sheepskin things - they LOVE sheepskin .

They often have very small houses, so compact things are good.

Father maybe Australian themed tie, maybe a nice book of Australia. Wood ware from Australian timber. Their favourite things are sheepskin, knitwear and natural wool, from NZ I always give paua, greenstone. Also special Australian biscuits, sweets etc are popular. Most Japanese women seem to like chocolate.

Enjoy your exchange.

It is a very beautiful country.  

Answer 3

It is pretty traditional to bring snacks. What are some of the most popular snacks in Australia? You should bring those for sure. Don't spend too much or they will try too hard to please you or feel strange around you.

Bring snacks and the stuffed animals for your initial move but then as you stay and go to places bring back some snacks or tea or local grown goods to them. Example if you are going to Miyajima bring them back some Momiji Manju which is the specialty of the island. Every area of Japan has something like that it is famous for. Treats will win you big points without making feel overly obligated or under appreciated.

Answer 4

bring a popular snack from austrailia