7 Underrated Souvenirs to Reminisce About Your Time in Japan

Leaving your dream country such as Japan can be heartbreaking for someone that dreamed almost their entire lives into traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun. From your first step into the country outside of the Narita or Haneda Airport to the first taste of authentic Japanese food and finally taking your final steps to head back into the airport for your departure, every single memory would be engrained into your heart on your amazing time in Japan. However, you want to bring something that you can remember the times when you're inside of the country.

But don't worry! I got you the perfect list on what souvenirs you can bring back to your home. These souvenirs are not only underrated and not many foreigners really bought them to bring back home, but also it's legal to bring back and won't get you in trouble with both the Japanese law enforcements and your country's law enforcements.

So, here are the 7 underrated souvenirs to remember your time in Japan!

Setting the Scene: Leaving Japan After Your Dream Vacation

After saving up for years and finally taking the trip of your dreams to Japan, it's hard to believe it's already time to return home. As you pack up your suitcase with a heavy heart, you want to bring back some special souvenirs to remember your incredible vacation.

But rather than going for the obvious touristy trinkets, you decide to look for some underrated and unique keepsakes that will remind you of Japan's captivating culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

7 Underrated Souvenirs to Remember Your Time in Japan

Yukata: Embrace Japanese Style and Comfort

A yukata is a lightweight, cotton summer kimono that's perfect for hot and humid weather. Both stylish and comfortable, the yukata makes a wonderful keepsake from your trip.

Slipping on your yukata back home and feeling its soft, breathable fabric will instantly transport you back to those balmy Japanese summer nights. Yukata come in vibrant colors and patterns ranging from traditional floral and nature motifs to modern anime designs. It's easy to find one to match your personal taste.

Every time you wear it, memories of wandering through summer festivals and sightseeing in classic Japanese style will come flooding back.

Kokeshi Dolls: Unique Handcrafted Keepsakes

Kokeshi dolls have been made by artisans in northern Japan for centuries. Each one is hand-carved from wood and painted with simple but charming faces. No two kokeshi are exactly alike, making them a uniquely personal memento of your trip.

These traditional folk art dolls come in many sizes and styles - from cute little palm-sized miniatures to larger decorative pieces. Find one with a face and colors that appeal to you, and it will be a delightful reminder of Japan's rich cultural heritage every time you look at it sitting on your shelf or desk back home.

Okiagari Koboshi Doll: Symbol of Resilience and Good Luck

Representing the Japanese values of resilience, perseverance, and good humor even in adversity, Okiagari Koboshi are roly-poly tumbling dolls that pop right back up when knocked down. According to tradition, owning one is said to bring good luck. This cheerful red-capped fellow in traditional Japanese work clothes makes for a meaningful souvenir.

No matter how many times life may "knock you down," Okiagari Koboshi reminds you to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and carry on with a smile, just as the Japanese people have done in the face of many hardships throughout history.

Place him on your shelf or desk and let him inspire you whenever you're having a difficult day.

Chopsticks: Practical and Cultural Souvenirs

A pair of hashi (chopsticks) makes for an inexpensive but meaningful keepsake that you'll actually use on a regular basis.

Choose a set crafted from beautiful Japanese wood, lacquered in striking colors and designs, or ornately decorated with scenes of Japanese landmarks. Using your special chopsticks to enjoy Japanese food or even just everyday meals back home will remind you of sitting down to amazing meals at ryokans, izakayas, and street food stalls during your trip.

Or display them as wall art to admire their craftsmanship and invoke nostalgic memories of Japan whenever you see them.

Porcelain Ware: Exquisite Artistry for Your Home

Japanese porcelain like Arita, Imari, or Kutani ware makes a stunning addition to any home decor.

Intricately hand-painted with masterful skill in vibrant colors and rich, glossy glazes, Japanese porcelain vases, tea sets, plates, and more are truly works of art. Choose a piece or set that appeals to your personal taste - from Japanese nature and scenery designs to traditional cultural motifs.

Displaying this fine craftsmanship in your home will be a lasting reminder of Japan's captivating landscapes as well as the remarkable artistry and attention to detail of Japanese culture.

Japanese Fans (Sensu): Elegant and Functional Keepsakes

The graceful sensu (folding fan) makes for an elegant, decorative, and functional souvenir. Beautifully crafted from wood or bamboo ribs covered in delicate Japanese washi paper and adorned with motifs from nature, history, or mythology, the sensu has an enchanting, old-world feel.

Fans come in varying sizes and designs - choose one that captures your memories of Japan's scenery, culture, and history. Display it as a decorative piece that calls to mind cool breezes off Mt. Fuji on a hot summer day.

Or take it out to create your own cooling breeze whenever memories of Japan's humid summers come back to you.

Geta and Zori Sandals: Traditional Footwear with a Modern Twist

For a unique, practical, comfortable shoe souvenir handmade with outstanding Japanese craftsmanship, look no further than a modern twist on the traditional geta or zori sandals. Styles abound to suit any taste - from funky patterns and colors to natural wood finishes.

Slipping on your special Japanese sandals back home whenever you head out for a stroll in the park or a trip to the market will make you feel like you're wandering the quaint streets, shrines, and outdoor markets of Japan all over again.

Conclusion

As your dream trip to Japan draws to a close, be sure to take home one of these unique and meaningful souvenirs to forever remind you of your amazing time immersed in captivating Japanese culture and mesmerizing natural landscapes.

Whether it's a lightweight yukata kimono, hand-carved folk art doll, cheerful good luck charm, practical and decorative chopsticks, exquisite porcelain masterpiece, elegant folding fan, or a pair of comfortable traditional sandals with modern flair - you'll be sure to find the perfect underrated keepsake to bring back lasting memories of your once-in-a-lifetime Japan adventure.