So unless you are not planning to meet anyone on a trip to Japan, you should consider taking at least a few gifts with you. Another consideration is that the Japanese are constantly giving gifts and it would be embarrassing if you were empty handed. Also remember that tipping is not customary, but a small pin or memorabilia from Canada would be a most welcomed alternative. The end of the year gift giving is more widely observed, with gifts going to friends, colleagues, teachers, clients or customers, and to anyone you are indebted to. Business gift giving is much more lavish and prestigious, when humility is not a factor.
Companies spend large sums of money on O-seibo gifts to their clients or customers of that year.
And since everyone is giving a gift, there is a sense of competition to give the most interesting or valued gift. Department stores have a section just on gifts appropriate for gift giving. Naturally, department stores also have a gift wrapping and delivery service. Gifts are also important when returning from a trip for family, friends, and co-workers. This is one reason that the Japanese tourist is a valued customer in other countries.