Formal to Host
Cultural · Gift
You
つまらないものですが、どうぞ。
つまらないものですが、どうぞ。
It's a small token, but please accept it.
Romaji: Tsumaranai mono desu ga, dōzo. / Reply Romaji: Ara, arigatō gozaimasu! Ki wo tsukatte itadaite.
Reply
あら、ありがとうございます！気を遣っていただいて。
あら、ありがとうございます！きをつかっていただいて。
Oh, how thoughtful of you! Thank you so much!
Gesture & etiquette
Present the gift with both hands, fingers together, slight bow forward; if the item is large, support it from below; packaging matters — use the store's gift bag or furoshiki wrapping; do not prompt the recipient to open it immediately.
Although 'tsumaranai' literally means 'boring' or 'trivial,' this centuries-old humble formula expresses that the gift does not match the recipient's worth — a form of deep respect. Unlike Western custom, Japanese recipients typically do not open gifts in front of the giver; wait until the guest has left, or ask politely before opening.