Gift-giving holds significant importance in Japanese culture. The selection process is often influenced by an item's appearance, nature, name, or its associated kanji characters. Below are items Japanese people generally avoid giving as gifts:

Shoes and Socks

These items are not given to superiors or elders, as they imply "stepping underfoot," signifying a lack of respect.

Watches and Stationery

Presenting these items to elders conveys a message of urgency, encouraging recipients to "work harder and exert more effort."

Handkerchiefs

These items are often used to wipe away tears, making them common as farewell gifts. In Japanese, the kanji for handkerchief, "tegire," can mean "cutting ties." Plain white handkerchiefs are particularly taboo for joyous occasions, as they resemble the cloth used to cover the face of the deceased.

Glassware

Glass items are prone to breaking, which can evoke associations with marital breakdown. Therefore, they are considered unsuitable as wedding gifts.

Fire-Related Items

Kerosene heaters, ashtrays, and scented candles can suggest fire, making them inappropriate as housewarming gifts. Some Japanese people also avoid all red-colored items for such occasions.

Potted Plants

The word for "taking root" (nezuku) in Japanese sounds similar to "bedridden" (netsuku). Consequently, potted plants are not given as gifts when visiting someone who is ill.

Green Tea

The phrase "grinding tea" (nghien tra) metaphorically means "being idle." This originates from ancient courtesans who, when lacking customers, would grind tea to pass the time. Green tea is generally avoided as a gift for business openings. However, it is a common return gift at funerals or during year-end celebrations.

Combs and Knives/Scissors

The Japanese word for comb, "kushi," sounds similar to "suffering" and "death." Knives and scissors historically implied "cutting off relationships." Despite these traditional connotations, many businesses now market combs as signifying "combing away troubles" and knives/scissors as helping to "pave one's destiny" to attract customers.

According to etiquette expert Shibasaki Naoto, an associate professor at Gifu University, the core purpose of gift-giving is to convey care and gratitude. Therefore, the practicality of the gift and the recipient's preferences are crucial factors to consider.

Bao Nhien (Source: Nippon)