Are there rules for celebration gifts?
In short
It dependsThere are no legal rules, but some people avoid items linked to bad luck, such as sets of 4 or 9, or knives as wedding gifts. Attitudes are changing.
When does this apply?
Traditionally, knives and scissors (which suggest "cutting ties") and glassware (which suggests "breaking") are avoided as wedding gifts. Some people also avoid sets of 4 or 9, because the numbers sound like the words for "death" and "suffering".
Why?
It comes from avoiding things whose sound or meaning suggests misfortune. At the same time, more and more people think anything the recipient actually wants is fine.
What to do
- Put the recipient’s tastes and wishes first
- If unsure, ask what they would like
- Hand gifts over with both hands, turned so the front faces them
Better to avoid
- Give knives as a wedding gift to older people who care about luck, without thinking
Exceptions and differences
These ideas vary greatly by region, generation and family, and many people today do not mind. Some even give engraved knives with the positive meaning of "cutting a path to the future".
Manners can differ by region, facility and generation. Local signs and staff instructions come first.
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Sources
- Gift-Giving Etiquette in Japan(opens in a new tab)
- "Shūgi" and "Kōden": Money Gifts Expressing Congratulations or Condolences(opens in a new tab)
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