Weddings are a special occasion and so it is understandable that there are certain wedding gifts that will leave a lasting impression on the couple who has just wed which is why finding something with meaning and culture is important. If you are looking for a gift that is more sophisticated and traditional in style then why not look at a vintage Japanese piece? The art of presenting intentional and deeply signified unique gifts is an age old tradition in Japan. Whether or not that couple has any Japanese ties or you are purely interested showing them the wonders of Japanese artistry, these 10 traditional gifts will not only amuse but stay in memory for years to come.
Kintsugi, the art of repairing pottery with gold, is a beautiful metaphor for the human tendency towards resilience and transformation. For the Japanese, a broken piece can be even more beautiful than before for having been broken. A Kintsugi tea set, wherein broken teacups or a teapot are repaired with gold or silver lacquer, represents the strength in meeting the challenges with each other to make a good marriage work. This beautiful set is very practical and also carries very strong emotional and philosophical value.
Furoshiki is a square cloth used to wrap and carry goods, as well as the art itself. Traditionally, furoshiki are made from silk or cotton, with colors and patterns symbolizing themes in love, prosperity, and nature. A beautifully designed furoshiki could be a gift-wrapped product, a scarf, or even a home decoration. It is an ever-innovative and ecologically friendly gift to signify that the love and care wrap up this lovely couple.
It is a traditional craft in Japan, and Aizu lacquerware refers to the application of lacquer layers on wood, bamboo, or paper for the creation of intricate patterns and finishes. Many of these are used on formal occasions and could be often found as dinnerware, cups, trays, and bowls. A set of Aizu lacquerware to use on special occasions or displayed in their home. Such a beautiful gift is both useful and long-lasting.
An exquisite, hand-crafted kimono or a lightweight summer version known as a yukata is a true treasure that speaks to the richness of the Japanese culture. Not only will the kimono serve as a beautiful and functional gift during the wedding, but it also symbolizes respect, beauty, and tradition in its fine silk and often floral or abstract designs. A yukata is always the best for lounging around at home or rejuvenating at a hot spring spa. Either of these two options would be an elegant as well as memorable gift idea for a newlywed couple.
In Japan, heartfelt love messages and good wishes that will fill a couple's new life are written. Hoshi-uta, or "star poems," are often written at wedding ceremonies and beautifully written on scrolls or in calligraphy. These traditional forms of art have romantic, poetic sayings, often with the theme of eternal love, happiness, and hope for shared futures. Gifting a beautifully framed star poem is indeed a very personal and touching gesture to celebrate the couple's union.
A byobu is a great folding screen that separates spaces or acts as an art piece. Traditional byobu are hand-painted gorgeous landscapes, flowers, or historical scenes, thus creating wonderful cultural values in Japan. A small ornamental folding screen is a nice gift for newly wedded couples, symbolizing beauty, elegance, and harmony, which are the qualifications for a happy marriage.
If both the bride and groom have an interest in spiritual or religious traditions, a small Shinto shrine altar or sacred items can include a hamaya-tori, which is a ceremonial arrow meant to bring blessings of safety and happiness and omamori, meant to make life with the other spouse to be only a life filled with good fortune. This is a spiritual gift that holds significant meaning and incorporates an element of tradition and protection into their marriage.
A sensu is a delicate folding fan that is gorgeously done with colors and often has traditional designs such as cherry blossoms or cranes. These fans are not only practical during warm weather but also artistic pieces for a home. In Japan, cranes depict longevity and prosperity. A Sensu fan is, therefore, a great gift because it wishes the couple a long, prosperous life together. It unites utility, beauty, and symbolism.
Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine usually enjoyed during celebrations. It is, therefore, an excellent wedding gift. The fine alcohol set, consisting of small sake cups and a bottle of sake, is a beautiful traditional gift. With high-quality sake, the gift will be ready to go for the couple when they celebrate their marriage by raising a glass to toast their future. In Japan, sake symbolizes prosperity and happiness, so giving this gift not only makes sense practically but also gives meaning to the present.
The right wedding gift has a lifelong impression, resonating with meaning and tradition. There is something uniquely and beautifully crafted in a piece of old Japan, as well as the rich symbolism and cultural meaning that Japan presents. Whether it's an artistic piece, practical homewares, or spiritually meaningful, one of these ten traditional Japanese gifts is sure to bring joy, good luck, and prosperity into the new life of the newlywed couple embarking on their new journey.