Polite to Host
Cultural · Gift
You
まあ、こんなにご丁寧なものをいただいて、恐れ入ります。
まあ、こんなにごていねいなものをいただいて、おそれいります。
My goodness, I am truly overwhelmed to receive such a thoughtful gift.
Romaji: Maa, konna ni goteinei na mono wo itadaite, osoreirimasu. / Reply Romaji: Taihen sasa yaka na mono desu ga, doko zo.
Reply
大変ささやかなものですが、どうぞ。
たいへんささやかなものですが、どうぞ。
It's just a small thing, but please accept it.
Gesture & etiquette
Receive the gift with both hands, bowing slightly as you accept it. Express genuine surprise by slightly widening your eyes and perhaps placing one hand near your chest. Hold the gift respectfully — do not immediately tear it open. Place it carefully on a nearby surface or set it aside with visible care. Thank the giver again when you later meet them after having opened it.
In Japanese gift culture, the recipient is expected to express humble surprise and gratitude — accepting too eagerly appears greedy. 'Osoreirimasu' (I am overwhelmed/unworthy) is the most gracious receipt phrase. Gifts are traditionally not opened in front of the giver unless specifically invited to do so.