Giving gifts in Japan

At the luxury hotel in Alicante Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa we want to experience the magic of Christmas with all of you. That´s why today we want to take you to Japan to discover everything about the art of Japanese gift giving.

The art of giving gifts in Japan is a very important part of its culture. Japanese people give gifts to their families, friends and coworkers, who help them on their everyday activities, on two occasions throughout the year: Ochugen in summer, and Oseibo in winter.

Ochugen is a present Japanese people give around July 15 to their loved ones to express their gratitude for their help during the first half of the year, and to ask them formally to stay with them during the second half of the year. These gifts usually are seasonal food, sweets, coffee, liquors and any type of food. However, the most common gift is beer.

Ochugen gifts are perfectly wrapped in the traditional Japanese package called noshi. The title of the Ochugen is written on upper half of the package while the presenter´s name is written on the lower half.

The origin of Ochugen dates back to a Chinese festival, which took place July 15, and directly associated with the Japanese Obon festival, and was established as a date for trading gifts with friends and neighbours.

Regarding Oseibo, this is the traditional winter gift. It is given in the middle of December to thank their closest people for helping them throughout the year. Just as Ochugen, Oseibo is usually food or drink.

Its origin comes from the custom of giving presents to the loved ones during New Year´s Eve.

From the 5 stars resort in Alicante Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa we want to thank you for sharing with us this year. Merry Christmas!