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Moving-in Gift
As in many other countries around the world, gift giving is a custom in Japan.  There are many occasions and situations where a gift is offered, and often it is expected that the recipient of a gift will later on provide another gift in return.  One aspect of gift-giving with which our real estate company is familiar is the "housewarming gift" (or, "moving in gift").  It can be translated into Japanese as: 引っ越しプレゼント -- "Hikkoshi purezento".  Basically, when someone newly moves into a home, it is the custom to provide self-introductions and gifts to surrounding neighbors.  This has been going on in Japan for hundreds of years.  In the olden days, certain types of gifts were offered or exchanged, which had special meanings -- for example: fresh bread, so that the residents would never go hungry; rice, for fertility; a new coin, for wealth; a straw broom, to sweep away any evil; and wine or sake, to bring the household happiness.  Nowadays, those who are moving into a rental house or apartment should give small and inexpensive gifts, such as boxed kitchen towels or handkerchiefs, tins of chocolates or cookies, etc.  But situations and neighborhoods are varied, and a traditional, old single-family-dwelling neighborhood has a different feel from a more anonymous high-rise apartment tower.  In any case, our company can advise you on how and where to offer your moving-in gift.  If desired, we will go along with you to do it.  These types of gifts are well-understood (and appreciated) by Japanese people, so it is unlikely that there will be any complications.  In a best case, the gift can open the door to becoming friends with some of your Japanese neighbors.  Please let us know if we can support you with the moving-in gift (Hikkoshi purezento) custom.  By the way, please see the link below for general information about gift-giving customs in Japan. 

Written by Goodfield

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LINK

Gift Giving in Japan:

Japanese Housewarming Gift Giving Traditions That You Need to Know! - Sakuraco