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Bits of Knowledge in Japan

"O-Senbetsu", custom of giving a parting gift

"O-Senbetsu" is a parting gift given to an acquaintance, colleague who will move residence, be transferred at work, change jobs, advance to higher education, go on long holiday etc.

This gift is given as a gesture of gratitude and good fortune.
The gift should be chosen by taking into account one's relationship with the person up to the present, the persons, status, and the person's lifestyle hereafter.

If one received a gift when one moves residence, a return gift is not required, although
a letter of gratitude must be sent.
And also, if one received a gift when going on long holiday, a souvenir should be
bought for the giver.
"Okaeshi", return is one of very important Japanese traditional custom.


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