Gift-giving is a cherished tradition in many cultures around the world, but in Japan, it carries a deep sense of respect, thoughtfulness, and artistry. Japanese gift-giving culture goes beyond the simple exchange of presents; it’s about showing appreciation, respect, and sincerity. One of the most iconic and sustainable ways
to wrap gifts in Japan is through the use of furoshiki, a versatile rectangular piece of cloth that can be used to wrap, carry, and protect a gift in a beautifully elegant manner.
The Timeless Tradition of Furoshiki Wrapping
Furoshiki, traditionally made from cotton or silk, has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries. It was first used to wrap personal belongings or to carry items to public baths. Over time, furoshiki became associated with the art of gift-giving, offering a unique, meaningful way to present presents in Japan.
One of the most wonderful aspects of furoshiki is its sustainability. Unlike traditional wrapping paper, which is typically discarded after use, furoshiki is reusable and eco-friendly, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Whether it’s for a birthday, a wedding, or even a Christmas
gift, furoshiki wrapping allows you to present your gift in a way that reflects thoughtfulness and care. Moreover, furoshiki can be repurposed in numerous ways, long after the gift has been unwrapped. The fabric can be used as a scarf, tablecloth, or even a shopping bag. This versatility makes furoshiki an incredibly
thoughtful gift itself, as the recipient can continue to use it for years to come, making it a lasting memory of both the giver and the occasion.
The Special Connection of Japanese Couples at Christmas
In Japanese culture, Christmas is often viewed as a romantic holiday, and couples enjoy spending this time together. It’s a time for exchanging meaningful gifts, and many couples will choose matching or complementary presents as a way to celebrate their bond. This tradition aligns perfectly with the idea of omotenashi or the Japanese art of hospitality, where every detail is carefully considered to show
appreciation for one another. If you're looking for the perfect gift for a couple this Christmas, why not consider matching items that reflect both the unity and individuality of each person? In particular, the Hobonichi Weeks Bow and Tie series offers beautiful options that couples can enjoy together. With both mega and regular versions available, the Hobonichi Weeks planners are perfect for the organised couple who love to stay on top of their schedules while also enjoying a bit of creative flair.
The Hobonichi Weeks planners come in a variety of designs, and for the upcoming New Year, the addition of cherry and snake motifs adds an extra layer of charm. The snake is an iconic symbol for the New Year 2025 in Japan, representing transformation, vitality, and renewal. These designs pair beautifully with furoshiki
wrapping, allowing you to create a cohesive and meaningful gift package that blends tradition, sustainability, and romance.
Perfect Gift Sets for the Holidays
We offer a variety of thoughtfully curated gift sets, each designed to bring the essence of Japanese tea culture into your home. Our sets include matching tea tins, an organic matcha tea set, and organic matcha and hojicha tea sets, making them the perfect choice for both seasoned tea lovers and those just beginning their tea journey. Whether you’re looking to delight a tea enthusiast or introduce someone to the world of high-quality, organic teas, these sets offer something for everyone.
For tea starters, our organic matcha tea set provides a gentle yet rich introduction to the vibrant flavours and health benefits of matcha. Matcha, a finely stone-ground green tea powder, has been enjoyed in Japan for centuries and is known for its antioxidant-rich properties. Unlike traditional tea, matcha involves consuming the whole leaf, offering a more potent source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. The set includes two types of matcha to explore different flavour profiles. The Organic certified Uraku which is perfect for matcha latte and the Wabisuke which is sweeter.
For those who enjoy a more roasted, mellow flavour, our organic hojicha tea set offers a perfect alternative. Hojicha is made from green tea leaves that are roasted, resulting in a warm, earthy flavour that appeals to both tea aficionados and coffee lovers. With its low caffeine content, hojicha is ideal for evening enjoyment and is often considered a great gateway tea for coffee drinkers looking to cut back on caffeine. The roasted notes of hojicha make it the perfect complement to any meal, and its smooth, toasty taste is both comforting and satisfying.
These tea sets are not only perfect for seasoned tea lovers but also make thoughtful gifts for coffee lovers looking to explore the world of Japanese tea. The benefits of both matcha and hojicha, combined with the premium quality of our organic blends, provide a unique tea experience that promotes relaxation, focus, and overall wellness. The Tea Tin sets include one olive green and white tea tin which can be used for any type of storage from coffee to tea and even biscuits.
Whether you’re gifting to someone who already appreciates tea or introducing a friend or family member to the joys of matcha and hojicha, these sets are sure to impress. Paired with our beautiful matching tea tins, which help preserve the freshness and flavour of the tea, these sets make a lasting gift that keeps on giving.
For pairs, we highly recommend the Yoshida Yunomi Set, which features a beautifully crafted porcelain cup and rice bowl which is ideal for enjoying tea and a meal together. This matching set is not only functional but adds a touch of Japanese whimsicalness to any home. With the blue stamped wrestlers on each yunomi and bowl, you can find quaint companionship with every table set-up and makes for a wonderful conversation piece.
A Perfect Pairing for the Holidays
This holiday season, why not make your gift-giving even more special by incorporating traditional Japanese elements like furoshiki wrapping? Whether you're giving a Hobonichi Weeks planner as a gift to a couple or simply offering a thoughtful present to a friend or family member, the art of furoshiki wrapping elevates the gift itself, creating a memorable experience that will be cherished long after the holidays are over.
Our furoshiki wrapping service offers a variety of cloths in different sizes and designs, ideal for wrapping both small and large gifts. This holiday season, embrace the sustainable elegance of furoshiki wrapping and make your gift-giving truly unforgettable.
Find all the Gift Sets on our website or visit in person to see the items up close and reduce those risky fragile delivery stress. Enjoy a nice cup of Ippodo’s Iribancha tea while observing the tranquil shopping experience away from the bustling high streets.
Location: Studio 3.03 Grand Union Studios, London, W10 5AD
Open Monday-Saturday (Last Day 23rd Dec) from 10-6 pm.