Hello, this is Suzu!
Are you worried about choosing souvenirs before going on a homestay?
“What would make them happy?” “What’s a good budget?” It can be a bit overwhelming, right?
Especially for your first homestay, choosing the right souvenirs can play a big role in making communication with your host family smoother.
In this article, I’ll introduce souvenirs that will absolutely make your host family happy, when to give them, and tips for choosing the right ones.
I’ll also share some souvenirs my friends and I gave to our host families in Ireland that were a big hit!
This article is recommended for people like you!
- People going on a homestay for the first time and unsure about souvenirs
- Those who want to give their host family a Japanese-style souvenir
- Anyone looking for thoughtful souvenirs within budget
No more worries about choosing the right souvenir!
Let’s make sure you’re all set for a fantastic start to your homestay journey!
What Japanese Souvenirs Are Loved by Host Families?
Souvenirs you bring to your host family can be a great way to connect with them.
Japanese souvenirs, especially unique designs or items that are hard to find locally, are very popular!
The most important tip when choosing a souvenir is “Will it make them happy?”
There are various options, from sweets to traditional items, but it’s essential to consider the family’s makeup and preferences.
Popular Sweets
How to Choose
Sweets are a classic choice for homestay souvenirs.
They allow your hosts to enjoy unique Japanese flavors and serve as a great conversation starter!
Matcha flavor is a huge favorite!
If it’s a short stay, a small package is ideal; for longer stays, slightly higher-end sweets can also fit within budget.
When choosing sweets, it’s recommended to ask your host in advance via email about their preferences or allergies.
If they aren’t fond of sweets, consider savory snacks as a creative option!
Here’s a guide on how to send a friendly email to your host family:
Now, let me introduce some sweets my friends and I gave to our host families in Ireland that were a big hit!
My Top 5 Recommended Sweets for Host Families
Alfort Matcha
Alfort Matcha is a biscuit topped with matcha chocolate made from premium Uji matcha.
The deep bitterness of matcha pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the biscuit, making it enjoyable for both adults and children.
Our host family loved the slight bitterness of the matcha!
My host mom loved it the most and even served it during tea time!
You can also buy it at drugstores.
Pocky Matcha Flavor
A must-try for matcha lovers, the Pocky Deep Rich Matcha
This snack has pretzels infused with matcha and coated in matcha chocolate, providing a light and crispy texture.
It seems the host family’s kids enjoyed it so much they finished it in no time.
With a mild bitterness, it’s also recommended for those who don’t usually like sweets.
The host mother praised its delicate sweetness.
They enjoyed it during tea time.
Easily available at supermarkets.
KitKat Hojicha Flavor
KitKat Uji Hojicha is known for its fragrant hojicha aroma.
The mellow sweetness pairs perfectly with the deep tea flavor.
It seems the host family loved its aroma.
Hojicha’s unique fragrance makes it a rare treat abroad, perfect for work breaks.
KitKat Matcha Flavor
KitKat Deep Matcha is filled with a rich matcha flavor.
It’s a well-loved Japanese treat.
“The bitterness of matcha is so addictive,” shared by the whole host family.
Jagari-Ko (Japanese Potato Snack)
Crispy and light, Jagari-Ko is a unique Japanese snack you won’t easily find abroad.
My host mother loved the crunchy texture and said it was delicious!
Jaga Pokkuru (Japanese Potato Snack)
Jaga Pokkuru is a snack made from Hokkaido potatoes cut into sticks with the skin on and fried!
It is simple yet satisfying with a light, crispy texture!
When a friend of mine gave this snack to her host family, they said, “It tastes just like potatoes! They were very popular!
In Ireland, potato chips are often eaten with meals, and it seems that Jaga Pokkuru is eaten with meals just like potato chips!
Seasoning
How to choose
Japanese seasonings may be the first time your host family encounters many flavors!
I recommend seasonings that are easy to combine with meat dishes and vegetables.
My Top 4 Recommended Seasonings
Yuzu Kosho (Yuzu pepper):
Yuzu Koshois characterized by the fresh aroma of yuzu and the spiciness of chili pepper.
Just a little bit added to a salad or pasta dish can really enhance the dish!
My friend’s host mother said, “I’ve never seen this seasoning before! She was pouring it on her salad!
Wasabi:
Wasabi comes in a tube, which is perfect for carrying around!
In Ireland where I went, Wasabi is sold occasionally, so even if you have never had it before, it seems to be familiar to you.
My friend’s host father seemed to like it and tried it with his steak!
A small portion with a strong impact, so it will be a great conversation starter at the dinner table 🍣.
Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic
Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed over rice or pasta.
My friend’s homestay family’s kids loved it and used it as a topping for ramen and pasta 🍜.
Bulldog Sauce:
Bulldog Sauce is a sauce that can be used for croquettes.
It is available in Worcestershire sauce, Chuno sauce, Tonkatsu sauce, etc.
It tastes like it would go well with barbecue! They were so happy and used it for cooking sometimes!
The sweetness and richness of Japanese sauces are very popular with steaks and grills 🍖.
Traditional Items
Introducing Japanese Culture
Traditional Japanese items are a great opportunity to introduce our culture🎋.
I recommend well-designed items as they will help your host family feel the charm of Japan!
My host mother had been a host for 15 years.
My host mother had been hosting for 15 years, so I decided not to use chopsticks.
She seemed to have them, in fact, she had about 5 pairs.
3 items that were favorable to my host family
Tenugui hand towel(手ぬぐい)
My host family liked this item because of its practicality and the fact that the design is not found in other countries.
You can use them in the kitchen, and they can also be used stylishly as interior decorations.
It is a great gift because you can enjoy using it differently for each season 🎋.
Wind chime(風鈴)
My friend gave this to her host family and they thought it was pretty fresh!
It’s a great way to let them feel Japanese culture 🎐.
Be careful not to break it!
Japanese folding fan(扇子)
An item that combines ease of use and Japanese tradition.
I saw a lot of people using fans in Ireland, and apparently they are sold in many places.
If you bring a fan with a Japanese pattern, it will make a great gift 🌸.
Q&A
- QWhat kind of souvenirs would you like to bring as a homestay gift?
- A
Japanese sweets, traditional items and practical items are especially popular. Choose while considering the preferences and cultural background of the recipient!
- QWhen is the best time to give souvenirs?
- A
I recommend giving them on the day of arrival while expressing your gratitude 😊.
- QWhat is the budget for souvenirs?
- A
For a short-term stay, about 500-1,000 yen, and for a long-term stay, about 3,000 yen is recommended.
Summary
Bringing a souvenir to a homestay is a great way to start initial communication with your host family!
By choosing souvenirs that match their lifestyle and preferences, such as sweets, traditional items, practical seasonings, etc., you can build a better relationship with them!
Souvenirs are best given on the day of arrival!
With the points mentioned in this article, choose souvenirs that your host family will appreciate and start your stay with a great start! 😊
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