Fob Chain
Should I give souvenirs to people I meet in Japan?
I live in NYC, will be visiting Osaka for a week, and someone advised me to bring little gifts for the people I run into, like if I stop someone to ask for directions. It sounded a little weird to me, but then I found a British site that says, "Even smallest mementos of British life make well-received gifts. Pack a small selection of Key Rings, magnets or postcards - anything with a London bus or red phone box is good, or just leaflets about your region. You might want to give them to helpful taxi drivers instead of a tip, for example." ( http://www.realgap.co.uk/What-to-pack-for-Japan )
I could understand bringing gifts if I was staying with a host family (I'm not), but for taxi drivers? Strangers on the street? Is this really a common practice? (And I wouldn't look like a jerk for trying to fob off a cheesy Big Apple Key Chain on someone?)
No this is not common at all. Gift giving is a must in Japan but only if you are going to someones house or meeting a friend you have not seen in a while and want to give them a souvenir. Traditionally food is the best gift like manju or other snacks that are regional to the place you came from. You don't give things to strangers just for helping you. A proper sincere thank you is enough.
p.s. You do not tip in Japan either. This includes Taxis, Hotels, and Restaurants.
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