Please help... appropriate gifts for group hosts
 

Just returned from a terrific business trip to Tokyo (first time). My hosts were quite gracious and welcoming, and made me feel very comfortable. <BR> <BR>The people in my headquarters office were my hosts and "guides". I would like to send my gratitude in the form of an "office gift" since there were so many people involved and I couldn't possibly choose a gift for each of them. <BR> <BR>Also, there were several people who gave me some small gifts to welcome me, such as tea. Is a thank you note more appropriate as handwritten, or typewritten? <BR> <BR>I could really use some direction as I do not want to offend anyone by being inappropriate. <BR> <BR>I reside in the U.S. <BR> <BR>Thanks to all! <BR> <BR>

Hi Jen, <BR> <BR>A gift is always appropriate no matter what country you are visiting. For your Japanese hosts, I suggest edible stuff that can be shared by everyone at the office. Anything from your home region is good, especially if it is not found in Japan. Many Japanese must save up a long time to vacation in the US - so they would be pleased to receive such souvenirs. <BR> <BR>I often bring small gifts to give to people in my company office that have helped me - for example, small packets of dry smoked salmon, T-shirts, caps, etc. These products are representative of my home area (British Columbia, Canada). <BR> <BR>Remember gifts do not have to be extravagant. If you give an expensive gift to a Japanese, that person would feel obligated to return the favor. <BR> <BR>You should not feel obligated to send anything, but if anyone from the Tokyo office will be visiting you in the future, you definitely must reciprocate at that time. <BR> <BR>If you have more questions, please feel free to email me. <BR> <BR>Regards, <BR>Sherman <BR>

Much thanks to Sherman! <BR> <BR>Recently heard that they may enjoy American cartoon characters such as the Warner Bros. variety (Bugs and crew). Thought about sending over some writing implements decorated with cartoons. <BR> <BR>Would this be good??

Hi Jen, <BR> <BR>Most Japanese, especially young people, will appreciate anything American - which includes cartoons, movies, music. and the like. <BR> <BR>You should be aware that there <I>are</I> cartoon-related gifts found in Tokyo's Disneyland, and Bugs Bunny and Woody Woodpecker items in airport gifts shops at Narita. <BR> <BR>But some US made items may not be available in Tokyo (your pens for instance). If they have something written in English so much the better - it seems that the Japanese are fond of things with slogans. <BR> <BR>And by the way - if you must write a thank-you note - <I>never</I> use red ink as it is a color signifying death. Black or blue is OK. <BR> <BR> <BR>Regards, <BR>Sherman <BR> <BR>

Sherman, <BR> <BR>You have been a terrific help and I truly thank you for your input! <BR> <BR>Gratefully, <BR>Jen