I need advice on what to bring as gifts for our Japanese friends/colleagues who will be escorting us while we are in Japan. I need suggestions for men as well as their wives and children. Thanks in advance for any help. <BR> <BR>Eileen

Eileen, <BR> <BR>Where are you from? I would think something special from you own country would be treasured.

Eileen, <BR>Do a search on the word gift. There was a thread recently that talked about gifts to China that might be interesting, and give you some more ideas. <BR>As Rhoda suggested something from your town or state (a small Statue of Liberty, or texas cowboy statue or coaster with state symbol). For the ladies a small bag of cosmetics, or minature perfumes. The Japanese are very status/logo crazy, anything with "a name" will be appreciated. For the kids a baseball cap/shirt of the local sports team, or american comic book. Things need not be very expensive, it is the thought that is appreciated. Have fun shopping!!

Men--most men in Japan love to drink. It would be great if you brought them a good bottle of whisky or scotch. <BR>Women--love American cosmetics and perfumes, which are extremely expensive in Japan. <BR>Kids--T-shirts, sweatshirts or any clothing with English writing. Or levi's jeans!

Thanks to Rhonda, leo, and Nina for your suggestions. We live in Florida and in the past have brought tee shirts with the University of Florida logo to children and golf shirts to the men. I had not had contact with the wives until they visited us this past summer. Your suggestions are all good. I just didn't know if I had been on the right track. Cosmestics/perfume I hadn't thought of. Thanks so much. <BR> <BR>Eileen

Anything you give, make sure the gifts are nicely and elegantly wrapped. The outside is as important as the inside. <BR> <BR>I found that Japanese like brand-name leather items,whisky, cognac, something monogrammed or name-engraved. <BR>

Thanks cb (benares)...I know that when they bring us gifts they are beautifully wrapped. When we have bought anything in Japan, in a department store or anywhere else, the purchase has always been carefully and beautifully wrapped. In the past I haven't followed suit. I will this time! I guess it goes along with their presentation of food. We could use lessons from the Japanese and the French on size of portions and ceremony re meals. Maybe we wouldn't have such a problem with obesity in our country. Thanks for the suggestion. <BR> <BR>Eileen