When I saw this huge line of local Japanese women lining up in front of a department store, what did I do? Joined them of course! I quickly learned the ladies were lined up to get first dibs on the launch of a new, limited edition skin care and makeup product line from a revered […]
Tokyo Banana– an irresistible Tokyo Souvenir When passing through Tokyo station, you can’t miss the Tokyo Banana shops– the super-cute, bright yellow shop fronts are designed to attract attention. During rush hour, you’ll even see long lines of locals queuing up for these baked banana treats. Although I was ready to stockpile the bananas for […]
Walk into the accessories section of any Japanese store and you will be floored by the trays of carefully arranged, high-quality hair pins, barrettes and costume jewelry, all sparkling enticingly like the little gems that they are. (more…)
Made in Japan Kimonos, Yukatas or bathrobes–what’s the difference? If you browse the Japan travel forum of well-known website you’ll find plenty of questions from would-be visitors looking for the perfect Japanese souvenir, asking questions like, “where can I find a reasonably priced, easy-care kimono to lounge around in?” (more…)
A Made in Japan Souvenir: Furoshiki Furoshiki cloths have a long tradition in Kyoto, dating back over a thousand years, and have always been a popular Japanese souvenir. The best way to describe Furoshiki is an eco-friendly cross between origami and wrapping paper. They can be used to create handbags of different sizes or wrappings […]
What did we say at every cash register in Japan? “Yes, gift please.” Linds and I quickly learned that uttering these three magic words at any Japanese shop meant the difference between a nicely packaged purchase and a spectacularly packaged purchase. This Japanese attention to presentation and service has deep roots in Japanese culture– anything […]
