Count down to Japan - packing

Suitcase filled with Omiyage

The count down is getting closer. Only three more days till we leave for Japan and we've begun to pack. Half my suit case is already filled and the only thing I have packed is Omiyage. 

Omiyage is the Japanese word for "souvenir", but is used more like the word "gift". It is customary to bring a gift to the members of the family that will host you while you are visiting. Good things to bring as Omiyage are things that are from the area you live or items that are made in your area; for example Oregon jams, candy made in Oregon or other made in Oregon items. We will also plan on giving Omiyage to other people that provide services for us such as tour guides, the principal at the school and the people at the hotel that we will stay.

bend2japan mascot

We've also found a little mascot to bring on the trip with us. We'll see where he goes and what sites he'll visit. Right now he's helping me pack my suitcase.