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The most gift-giving culture in the world Number of gifts is an important role in Japanese gift ritual. Avoid giving gifts in set of four because the word “four” in Japanese is “shi”, this word is associated with the word of death. The most gift-giving culture in the world Man being is an social animal. Then, it is very important to learn how to live in group and how to communicate with other people. Generally, human has many ways to express their feelings both verbal and non-verbal language. In Japan, the most gift-giving cultuer in the world, gift-giving is considered an effective way of communcating respect, freindship and appreciation. If your friends are Japanese, there are just only 3 how to keep in mind before giving them the gifts: how to choose, how to wrap and how to give. How to choose - Number of gifts is an important role in Japanese gift ritual. Avoid giving gifts in set of four because the word “four” in Japanese is “shi”, this word is associated with the word of death. Anyway, number nine should be also avoided since it symoblizes suffering. - Gifts in pairs are normally considered lucky - If you are invited to their home, bring flowers, cake, or candy as a gift is appropriate. Avoid lilies, lotus blossoms and camellias because they are associated with funerals. White flowers should be avoided, too. - Giving gifts to Japanese collegues, choosing gifts for each person is necessary. Do not forget to give higher quality gifts to those with more senior rank within the company. It is a mistake to give the same gift to two or more Japanese of unequal rank. - Giving red card is a big mistake because funerals notices are printed in this color. Avoid any items that symoblize the severing of a relationship such as scissors, knives, or letter openers. - Money is appropriate for certain occasions such as wedding, birth, birthday. How to wrap - One of the most important traditions in Japanese gift giving is gift wrapping that sometimes can be more important than gift itself. Traditionally, it is impolite to carry an unwrapped gift. The following are some guidelines of this tradition. - Color of wrapping paper has a very important role in Japanese gift giving. Gift wrapped in red fabric or paper is appreciated since it signifies fortunate occasion. White and brightly colored paper should be avoided because white symbolizes death and bright colors are too flashy. Gift wrapped in black paper indicates unlucky occasion. - Bows and ribbons are not recommneded for Japanese gift wrapping. The knots are acceptable. We can know the relationship between the gift giver and recipient by observing the knots. Moreover, special knots are used on gifts presented at weddings and funerals. These knots cannot be untied since they believe that this event can occur only once in an individual lifetime. How to give - Do not present a gift in front of others unless you have something for the rest in the room. - Present and receive a gift with two hands and a slight bow. - Present a gift at the end of your visit. - Traditionally, it is polite to refuse at least once or twice before finally accepting. - Gift should be opened in private in oder to preventany possible comparisons. - It is a good idea to bring some gifts for your trip so that you will be able reciprocate when you receive unexpectively a gift. - Do not crumple up the wrapping paper but fold ti nicely. In fact, the above detail is just some guidelines. If you are interested in this art of giving, you can learn it from your Japanese friends or some books or some websites. Now, Christmas is approaching. It is time to enjoy your gift shopping. Remember that gifts should be appropriate for age, sex, and culture of recipients. Solange