1.
return gift for condolence money; reciprocal gift after a funeral
A gift given by the bereaved family to those who offered condolence money (香典) at a funeral. Part of the Japanese custom of reciprocating gifts. Typically given after the 49-day mourning period.
Composed of 香典 (condolence money given at a funeral) + 返し (return).
Cultural note
- The gift is typically worth about half the condolence money received (半返し).
- Common choices are tea, towels, soap, and catalog gifts.
- It is traditionally sent after the 四十九日 memorial, but many families now hand it over on the day of the funeral (当日返し).