Holiday Shopping Guide

JAMsj museum shop offers array of holiday gifts

The Japanese American Museum of San Jose’s (JAMsj) store offers a treasure trove of gifts for every person on your holiday list. Items range from cards and clothing to jewelry and books. The majority of items sold in the store were created by Japanese American artists. Cards ($4) Colorful wooden kokeshi dolls are among the […]

Unforgettable gifts from Japan for under $50 (not including shipping)

Once you reach a certain age, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you will receive one or more of the following as gifts: a soap and loofah gift set… wine… assorted chocolates… a mug. While these gifts are practical and generally enjoyed by most people, they are, regrettably, forgettable. Why spend money on gifts that have […]

Gifts from Nichi Bei Bussan for under $50

Nichi Bei Bussan has a wide variety of Japanese gifts including traditional dishware, martial arts apparel, unique collectibles and a fantastic selection of books. Japanese Camera Case ($7.95) Give a unique and useful gift with fun Japanese flair! These soft-shell Japanese fabric carrying cases can be used as camera holders for the photographer in the […]

Gifts from Nikkei Traditions for under $50

Nikkei Traditions has modern Japanese gift ideas with Hawaiian flair, including music, DVDs, fashion and even snack items! Nikkei Traditions’ newest line of products has gone green! Check out these three eco-friendly gift ideas, along with several other great present possibilities. Water Bottles ($19-$22) Plastic water bottles not only increase our carbon footprint, they add […]

THE GOCHISO GOURMET: The Gochiso Gourmet’s reluctant gift guide

I’ve lost some of that feel-good anticipation and Christmas cheer that I used to experience as a child. While I haven’t converted completely to the Grinch or Ebenezer Scrooge, I’m not exactly the Ghost of Christmas Present come December. Perhaps part of this stems from the commercialization (or over commercialization) of Christmas. Maybe it’s seeing […]