What is “Ochugen”?
Gift giving is very popular in Japan and it’s a big part of the culture. One particular gift-giving event is called “ochugen”. Ochugen comes from the Taoist tradition of “chugen”. This was an event around 15 July when people asked the gods for forgiveness for their sins. The Buddhist Bon Festival also takes place on 15 July. It’s a way of honouring the dead.
Over time, the two events merged. Ochugen became a way for people to give gifts to those to whom they felt indebted. In the Edo period (1603-1868), people began to give gifts to more people than just family. They gave gifts to people who had helped them, such as matchmakers, doctors, teachers and bosses, as a way of saying “thank you”. So ochugen is this important Japanese tradition of exchanging gifts, especially to show appreciation and gratitude. It’s a big part of the gift-giving culture in Japan.
What types of gifts are given?
Ochugen takes place between 15 July and 15 August, the height of summer in Japan. In keeping with Japanese culture, most Ochugen gifts are food. This includes many seasonal foods such as:
Ice cream
Cakes
Meat (and seafood too!)
Noodles
Fresh vegetables
Beverages
Japan has a very strong food culture, so people try to give gifts of food that the recipient enjoys. The Lawson grocery store even has a special Ochugen gift catalogue. It’s like looking through a grocery store ad or a holiday catalogue with all the special meats, cheeses, cakes and cookies you can buy as gifts. The gifts focus on seasonal, delicious Japanese foods that the recipient will appreciate. It’s all about giving thoughtful food gifts during this special gift-giving tradition.
Ochugen gifts tend to be in the range of 2,000 to 10,000 yen, with higher amounts for those who can afford it. But the real purpose is to convey gratitude and appreciation through the thoughtful selection of food gifts.
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