It is also important to be aware of gift giving customs for hospital visits. Cut flowers, fruit books etc. are common gifts to be given to people in hospitals. Potted plants (implying a long stay) or camellias (the way the blossoms drop remind Japanese of death) are best avoided. It is customary to receive a small thank you gift when a person has been discharged from hospital advising you of their return to health.
People also often give a small token to neighbors when moving to a new building or area.
If a Japanese friend has a baby you might also like to offer your congratulations with a gift given a short time after the birth. Toys, clothes or cash to the value of 3000 yen are traditionally given. A simple gift bearing the baby's name is likely to be given in return.
Finally if you are heading off on holiday don't forget to bring back a souvenir. Every locale in Japan has its specialties in food, art crafts and so forth. Japanese travelers feel a strong obligation to bring back something for family, friends and co-workers. If you have received a present in the recent past, it is a good idea to reciprocate the gift on your next trip.
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