手土産(てみやげ)

Forms

手(て) (hand) + 土産(みやげ) (souvenir) → something brought by hand

DIFFERENCE FROM お土産(みやげ):

• お土産(みやげ): souvenirs from a trip
• 手土産(てみやげ): gifts brought when visiting someone

COMMON 手土産(てみやげ) ITEMS:

• 和菓子(わがし) (Japanese sweets)
• 洋菓子(ようがし) (Western sweets)
• 果物(くだもの) (fruit)
• お酒(さけ) (alcohol)
• 地元(じもと)の名産品(めいさんひん) (local specialties)

Etiquette

• Choose items that can be shared
• Consider the recipient's tastes and dietary restrictions
• Avoid items with odd numbers (except 五(ご) and 七(しち))
• Present with both hands, saying 「つまらないものですが」

Business context

手土産(てみやげ) is especially important in business settings (取引先(とりひきさき)への挨拶(あいさつ)) and shows respect and consideration.