Here is a list of ten souvenirs (excluding typical Japanese omiyage which I also tend to cart back) in no particular order that would make for great and surprising presents for those not so lucky to be able to come to Japan. You’ll notice that many gifts from this list can be purchased from Loft or Tokyu Hands, my go-to stores for interesting and classy souvenirs- as a bonus, many of these products have “Made in Japan” options!

Gotochi in Japanese can be translated simply into "local" or "regional" which is the main purpose of Japanese postal system producing these cards as they beautifully represent Japan's 47 prefectures.

Odaiba, located on the edge of Tokyo Bay, has plenty of great places for fun photos, spots that will make you think you're no longer in Japan.

Are you planning to celebrate a special day here in Tokyo? Anniversary, honeymoon, or perhaps your birthday? If these are the cases for you, how about creating rings of your own in Nakameguro, Tokyo?

Don't want to bring home keychains back as presents anymore? Fret not dear travelers because Japan, being the innovative and creative country that it is, has a souvenir that is both cheap and interesting!

We have gathered some original souvenirs and money saving souvenir tips for purchases that you can make in Don Quijote.

You may find yourself at Yamagata station with some time on your hands. Don’t worry; there is plenty to do.

The annual Hagoita-Ichi is an annual Battledore Fair which occurs every year in mid-December.

One of the most well-known colors to come out of Japan is Japan blue, better known as indigo. The indigo produced in Tokushima is known as awa ai. Even the town of Aizumi takes its name from indigo.

Horie. This area combines boutique fashion of areas and intimate coffee shops without the bustle of areas such as Umeda and nearby Shinsaibashi. This area is also home to bicycle stores, furniture shops and second hand clothing stores.

Anyone who has either studied about or has been to Japan will most-likely know that gift-giving permeates within the Japanese culture. The fascinating and confusing custom of Japanese gift giving can be successfully navigated with a little study and a lot of patience!

Yatsuhashi are one of the most popular traditional sweets sold in Kyoto. They come in two varieties: a crispy baked version, or a soft, sweet-bean-paste filled steamed version known as ‘nama’ (raw or unbaked) yatsuhashi. Next time you are in Kyoto try the Yatsuhashi making tour.