Top 19 Japanese Souvenirs Worth Bringing Home
Buying the best Japanese souvenirs is about more than just grabbing a keepsake. It's about capturing your journey into that souvenir. For all those tourists out there, if you're thinking about what to bring back home, let's explore a wide range of cool Japanese souvenirs.
They're not just popular by chance—there’s something special in each one of them. In this guide, we'll see why these souvenirs are your treasure as a tourist and how they can put your entire journey in a nutshell.
After all, it’s these unique items that capture the memories of a country.
1. Arita porcelain plates
Ever come across something so beautiful that it instantly reminds you of a particular place or time? That's the magic of Arita porcelain plates. These plates aren't just tableware—they're a canvas where skilled artisans paint a story of Japan's rich ceramic heritage.
There was a time when Europe went crazy for these beauties, calling them “white gold.” That charm hasn't faded. With classic blue and white designs, these plates are a blend of the old and new traditions.
And here's a travel tip: If you’re looking for the perfect Japanese souvenir, grab one of these porcelain plates. They're conversation starters, each with a story to tell about Japan's artistic soul to your family and guests. Now, that's the kind of souvenir worth taking home.
2. Matcha tea sets
Have you had the chance to experience matcha in the authentic Japanese style? It's a whole vibe beyond just a trendy drink. That’s why Americans have wholeheartedly adopted this tea and made it a part of their daily lives.
By sipping matcha prepared traditionally, you're celebrating a fusion of cultures. To prepare this tea, here’s what you will need:
The bamboo whisk (chasen)
The ceramic bowl (chawan)
Don't forget the matcha spoon (chashaku)
Although each piece plays a role in preparing the tea, the real art is in the preparation. As you whisk the bright green powder, you're stirring up a tradition that's been cherished for centuries in Japan.
Whether you're a seasoned tea enthusiast or a newbie, this tea set gives you a chance to connect with Japanese culture in a meaningful way. So, why not start your day with a cup of care and peace?
3. Kintsugi art pottery
Kintsugi is a glimpse into Japanese aesthetics and philosophy that dates back to the 15th century. At its core is the “wabi-sabi” belief that beauty lies in imperfection and transience. Instead of hiding the cracks, Kintsugi art celebrates them.
In the same style, broken pottery is fixed using this art. First, a special lacquer made from sap and powdered gold is gently applied. Then, those repaired areas are brought to life with accents of gold by creating patterns similar to veins.
But here's the catch—when you bring home a piece of Kintsugi pottery, you're not buying any old item; you're taking with you a piece of Japan's heart. And before you even wonder why it's worth adding to your collection, don’t forget it will serve as a constant reminder of your unforgettable journey to Japan and its traditions.
4. Japanese incense
Close your eyes and imagine a place where every breath feels like a step into a hidden world. That's the attraction of Japanese incense, also known as “kō.”
Burning this in your room or any corner of the house will evoke memories of serene temples and the quiet corners of traditional gardens. It gives a whole new vibe and brings a touch of Japanese serenity into your everyday life.
If you plan to buy one, you’ll have a diverse range of scents to choose from—ranging from subtle floral fragrances like cherry blossom and jasmine to the deep, woody scents of sandalwood and agarwood. Their ingredients include natural elements like tree bark, herbs, and essential oils.
5. Yukata
Yukata is a casual version of the kimono—traditionally worn during summer festivals and events in Japan. They are made from light, breathable cotton and are perfect for humid summers. You can find them with vibrant patterns and colors, from simple, elegant designs to more elaborate, festive prints.
The motifs on Yukata can include natural elements like:
Flowers and birds
Seasonal patterns
Geometric designs
Unlike the more formal kimono, yukata are relatively easy to wear. They require a few simple folds and a sash —called “obi”—to secure it. This makes them popular among both locals and tourists.
You'll find many options when selecting a yukata, from affordable, ready-made pieces to more luxurious, handcrafted versions. Some shops even sell matching accessories like geta (wooden sandals) and kinchaku (Japanese handbags) to create a complete ensemble.
6. Sensu and uchiwa fans
On your journey through Japan, you'll likely encounter sensu and uchiwa, traditional Japanese fans.
Sensu is used in traditional Japanese dance and tea ceremonies, adding a flourish of grace and beauty to each movement. The art on them includes simple or elegant patterns to scenes from Japanese folklore and nature.
While sensu fans are foldable, uchiwa are non-folding fans made from bamboo and paper. These fans are sturdier and often used during the summer festivals to create a refreshing breeze. You will commonly see them with bright, colorful graphics being used as both functional and decorative items.
Moreover, these fans are a reminder of the:
Lively festivals on the streets
Gentle and rhythmic breeze on a warm day in Japan
Serene moments of enjoying a cup of tea under the shade
They represent Japanese traditions in a simple yet profound way.
7. Noren curtains
Noren are traditional Japanese fabric dividers often seen hanging at the entrance of shops, restaurants, and even in homes. They are made from cotton or linen with one or more vertical slits from the bottom to nearly the top.
Some Noren are simple and monochromatic, while others are colorful and show detailed artwork. You will find them in various sizes, colors, and designs featuring calligraphy, traditional patterns, or scenes that reflect the business's nature or the homeowner's aesthetic taste.
In shops, a Noren will indicate that you’re open and ready to welcome guests. And at home, they show a sense of privacy while allowing a gentle breeze to pass through. But if you’re buying, you can use them as:
Door curtains
Room dividers
Unique wall hangings
Each time you see or walk through them, you're reminded of the vibrant Japanese culture.
8. Washi paper ornaments
Washi paper, known for its durability and flexibility, is ideal for creating a variety of ornaments. These decorative items represent the skill and elegance of Japanese paper art. From intricate paper dolls and detailed cut-outs to sophisticated origami creations and paper lanterns, there’s so much to bring home.
Each washi ornament reflects Japanese themes, such as cherry blossoms, cranes, koi fish, and scenes from traditional folklore. During festivals, holidays, and special occasions like the New Year, these ornaments take center stage in Japanese homes and public spaces, adding a festive and cultural ambience.
Since they are lightweight and easy to transport, you can easily take them home and bring a touch of Japanese elegance into your space.
9. Sakura-themed jewelry
One of the most beautiful things you’ll find during spring is the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms, or “sakura.” These blossoms are a symbol of beauty, which is why you'll find a range of sakura-themed jewelry, including gorgeous necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings.
Craftsmen use materials like gold, silver, and precious stones to mimic cherry blossoms' soft pink and white hues. The designs are elegant and simple, focusing on a single blossom, or fancier, depicting a cluster of flowers or a whole branch.
If you love elegant jewelry, this is another one of the best Japanese souvenirs you shouldn’t miss out on.
10. Wajima-nuri lacquer chopsticks
Wajima-nuri is a lacquering technique that originated in the 15th century in Wajima, a beautiful city in Japan. What differentiates Wajima-nuri chopsticks from others is their decoration, which often features hand-painted designs or inlays.
Artisans apply layers of lacquer to the chopsticks before adding a polish as a top coat. Then, they use materials such as gold leaf or mother of pearl to create patterns and images. In fact, this process intensifies their appearance and strengthens the chopsticks.
You can use these chopsticks for important meals or special occasions to show respect for the dining experience in Japanese culture. Whether you use them in your dining rituals or display them as part of your home decor, they will remind you of Japan's skilled craftsmanship and deep-rooted traditions.
11. Edo kiriko
Ever heard of edo kiriko? It's this fantastic traditional glassware from Tokyo that you don't want to miss. What's special about these glasses is their sharpness and shininess—whenever light hits them, they sparkle like diamonds. Each one of these has cool and sophisticated designs that catch the light just right and make it pretty to look at.
These glasses are not for showcasing only—you can sip your favorite drink from this glass. Whether enjoying your favorite beverage or adding a touch of elegance to your decor, they bring a bit of Tokyo's magic into your everyday life.
So, if you're looking for a beautiful and practical souvenir, you've got to check these out.
12. Edo katchu
Edo katchu is meticulously handcrafted armor that embodies the spirit of the samurai era and keeps the Japanese tradition alive today. The detail of every helmet, piece of metal and fabric, is incredible, from the fierce masks to the patterns on the chest plates.
Other than that, here's the cool part—some of these are wearable. Even the famous baseball player Shohei Ohtani celebrated a home run by wearing a samurai helmet. So what’s stopping you?
If you're looking for something extraordinary from Japan, edo katchu is a standout choice. It's an experience and a connection to the courage of the samurai.
13. Limited edition KitKat
If you're a chocolate lover visiting Japan, you're in for a real treat with their limited edition KitKats. This isn't your average KitKat—there’s a sheer variety available for you in Japan.
A total of 47 different flavors are available and some of the most popular ones are matcha green tea, sake, and wasabi. The best part is that you can share it with your loved ones in your home country or savor it as a sweet reminder of your travels.
The packaging is as delightful as the flavors, with beautiful designs that reflect Japanese seasons (like cherry blossom). So, if you want a delicious, unique, and substantially Japanese souvenir, these KitKats are a must-try.
14. Tokyo banana
Tokyo banana is Japan's sweet treat that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It's a sponge cake with a creamy, banana-flavored filling, soft and light as a cloud.
But wait, there's more—they come in limited edition flavors and adorable designs featuring famous Japanese anime characters like Pokémon and Doraemon. Each variant provides a new taste experience, from classic bananas to exotic flavors that represent Japan's seasonal fruits and specialties. The Doraemon flavored on is gluten-free!
These beautifully packaged bananas are perfect for kids, and you can use them as ideal gifts or a sweet memento of your Tokyo adventure. Unlike inedible items, they’re an edible piece of Japanese culture you can share and enjoy.
15. Kiso cypress cutting board
Have you ever held something made of Kiso cypress? If not, the truth is it’s pretty special because this wood comes from Japan’s forests, and the grain is so fine that anything made from it looks beautiful. The cool thing about buying a cutting board of kiso cypress is how it feels and smells. It gives off a fresh, foresty scent, and its durability adds a touch of Japanese tradition to your kitchen.
You can use these boards for everyday use in your kitchen—and they’ll connect you with the craftsmanship of Japan every time you use them.
16. Manekineko good luck charm cat
Packing up memories from your Japan trip? Then, get yourself a Manekineko—this is a cute little lucky cat with one or two paws raised. But the raised paws have different meanings:
If it's the right paw, it's about bringing wealth and good luck
If the left paw is up, it's perfect for business owners like you to attract more customers
If both paws are up—you’re under complete protection
You’ll love them because they're small, easy to pack, and make you smile. On top of it, they're a great way to spark up a chat about your travels. Each time you glance at it back home, it's like a bit of a high-five from Japan, reminding you of your journey and maybe even bringing some extra luck your way.
17. Daruma doll
Like Manekineko, the Daruma doll also serves the same purpose. These round, roly-poly dolls are symbols of perseverance and good fortune.
They're weighted at the bottom, so they always return upright when tilted. This represents the Japanese proverb, “Nanakorobi yaoki,” which means “fall seven times, stand up eight.”
When you buy a Daruma doll, you'll notice it has blank eyes. All you’ve to do is make a wish and paint one eye. Then, when your wish comes true, paint the other eye. This way, you’ll remember your goals and dreams and won’t give up early.
For tourists like you, they're a great way to take a piece of Japanese culture into your home and stay inspired. Since they come in multiple sizes and colors, you can buy the ones you like.
18. Craft bonsai
Taking Japan's serene bonsai back with you is simpler than you might think. Unlike traditional bonsai, which requires extensive care and time, you can buy a craft bonsai to enjoy the beauty with less maintenance.
The best thing about craft bonsai is that it’s handcrafted using paper. Artisans shape and care for them, which is pretty relaxing and rewarding (if you’ve seen it). It's like a daily mini-retreat, a moment to connect with nature and your memories of Japan.
You can use this as elegant interior decoration and a special gift for your loved ones, representing a fusion of traditional beauty and artistic craftsmanship of Japan.
19. Food sample keychains
Have you seen ultra-realistic food replicas in restaurant displays? You can have a mini version of that as a keychain. That's what food sample keychains are—tiny, perfect replicas of Japanese dishes, from sushi rolls to ramen bowls, right on your keyring.
They’re perfect to shop as souvenirs because you can remember the delicious meals you enjoyed in Japan by looking at them. Whether you buy one that resembles your favorite Japanese dish or a variety that displays the diversity of Japanese cuisine, they're a charming way to carry a piece of Japan with you.
Ready to buy your favorite Japanese souvenirs?
Buying the best Japanese souvenirs is like choosing pieces of your journey to keep forever. Whether it's a traditional tea set or a vibrant Yukata, they’re memories and little bits of the journey you bring home. When deciding what to buy, think about what really resonates with your experience, something that'll spark conversations and add a touch of Japan's special vibe to your home.
