Japan launches gift features for Respect for the Aged Day

Various Japanese entities have launched special initiatives and gift features in preparation for Respect for the Aged Day.

Izumi City in Kagoshima Prefecture has released a dedicated selection of hometown tax (furusato nozei) gift items. The offerings include local specialties such as Kagoshima eel, Hinohikari rice, dried anchovies, seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets), and traditional shochu produced using historical methods.

In a separate initiative, the Alulu Mall, operated by System Research Co., Ltd., has introduced a feature focused on handmade and personalized gift ideas. The collection emphasizes meaningful gestures, including DIY activities to share with grandparents, custom-made items with personalized messages, and remaking cherished old items into new gifts.