In Japan, a small gift is never 'just' a small gift. Whether it’s omiyage (a souvenir from a trip) or a seasonal treat beautifully wrapped for a friend, these tokens carry a gentle but powerful message: I thought of you.
The value isn’t measured in price but in care, attention and the pleasure of finding something that will bring a smile.
Years ago, when I worked for Japanese companies, the senior staff would often return from trips to Japan with little gifts for the office staff members — perhaps a small paper fan, a ceramic dish or rice crackers in a cute tin. They were just small things but they looked gorgeous and were beautifully wrapped.
Even now, I still have many of them, often keeping the wrapping as well as the item inside! They weren’t expensive but they were chosen with thought and each one felt special.
This tradition has always fascinated me and, as I later learnt, in Japanese culture gift-giving isn’t reserved for birthdays or big occasions. It’s a gentle, everyday art - a way of sharing joy, marking the seasons or simply saying thank you.
*
Why small gifts have big meaning
A small gift has a kind of magic to it. It can be given for no reason at all, slipped into someone’s hand just to brighten their day. It’s the opposite of the ‘bigger is better’ mindset. Instead, it’s about choosing something thoughtful, personal and maybe even a little unexpected.
Often, these little surprises are the ones we remember most. They fit into life without fuss and they carry the warmth of a moment when someone thought of us.
Sometimes, a small, unexpected gift can be even more fun because it doesn’t create that awkward feeling that you should give something back in return. In Japan, this is part of a broader culture of being considerate to those around you. In Japanese culture, gifts are often presented with a modest phrase such as tsumaranai mono desu ga… (meaning 'It’s nothing special, but…'), which reassures the recipient and makes the gesture feel light, friendly and pressure-free.
Thoughtful doesn’t mean expensive
These days, many of us are being more mindful of what we spend - myself included. But the beauty of a small gift is that it doesn’t need to cost much to mean a lot. A well-chosen present under £10 or £15 can still be charming, useful and made to last.
In Japan, even the humblest gift is treated with respect, usually beautifully wrapped and given with two hands. That extra care transforms it into something special, a little ceremony between friends.
It’s a reminder that the joy of giving is about connection, rather than the price tag, and that the best part of giving is often seeing someone’s face light up when they open it.
Quality in the little things
One of my favourite Japanese ideas is zakka - everyday items that bring beauty and delight to everyday life. A pencil case with a playful design, a furoshiki wrapping cloth that can be used again and again, a small tin of fragrant tea. Even the tiniest gift can feel special when it’s well made, has a story or is a little hard to find.
*
A few ideas for small, thoughtful gifts
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few of my favourites from the collection I’ve gathered for my shop:
-
For the practical dreamer: A charming pencil case that makes everyday lists and doodles feel like a treat.
-
For the moment of calm: Hinoki onsen balls - a fragrant nod to the relaxing baths of Japan.
-
For the food lover: A bento box or cute set of chopsticks to make lunch a little more beautiful.
-
For the seasonally minded: A furoshiki cloth that can wrap gifts, carry shopping or decorate a home. Or a small dish that reflects the season.
-
For the sentimental: A greetings card with cute details and Japanese script, ready for your handwritten words. Or how about a wind chime that carries your wishes on the breeze.
*
Choosing the perfect little gift
When you’re picking out something small, here are a few things to keep in mind:
-
Think about the person’s daily routines - is there something they’d use and enjoy?
-
Look for items that feel unique or tell a story. Something they wouldn't ordinarily come across.
-
Add a personal touch - a note, a memory or simply lovely wrapping. These are the things that get remembered and treasured over time.
Either way, you'll find lots of inexpensive small gift ideas in the Hatsukoi shop.
*
Finding joy in the little things
In the end, it’s not the size of the gift that matters, but the thought and care that travels with it. A small gift can be a bridge between two people, carrying kindness, humour and creating shared memories.
Whether you’re in Japan, here in the UK or anywhere in the world, there’s something universally wonderful about giving - and receiving - these little treasures. They remind us that spending a fortune is not always necessary and, in a competitive, pressurise world, joy can still be found in the smallest of packages.
