1.
a gift brought when visiting someone's home; a host gift
a present that one brings when visiting someone, as a gesture of politeness and gratitude
友人の家に手土産を持っていった。
I brought a gift when I visited my friend's house.
手土産に和菓子を買った。
I bought Japanese sweets as a host gift.
取引先への挨拶に手土産を忘れずに。
Don't forget to bring a gift when greeting our business partner.
FORMATION:
手 (hand) + 土産 (souvenir) → something brought by hand
DIFFERENCE FROM お土産:
- お土産: souvenirs from a trip
- 手土産: gifts brought when visiting someone
COMMON 手土産 ITEMS:
- 和菓子 (Japanese sweets)
- 洋菓子 (Western sweets)
- 果物 (fruit)
- お酒 (alcohol)
- 地元の名産品 (local specialties)
ETIQUETTE:
- Choose items that can be shared
- Consider the recipient's tastes and dietary restrictions
- Avoid items with odd numbers (except 五 and 七)
- Present with both hands, saying 「つまらないものですが」
BUSINESS CONTEXT:
手土産 is especially important in business settings (取引先への挨拶) and shows respect and consideration.