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Small gifts are where Japanese kitchen tools really shine. Many of the most useful things in a Japanese kitchen cost only a few dollars, and they are the kind of thing people would never think to buy for themselves.
Every item below costs under $25 at most retailers and is something you would actually find in a Japanese home. Prices vary by seller, so check the listing before you buy.
For people who cook every day
Saibashi (long cooking chopsticks)
Long bamboo chopsticks are the Japanese cook’s tongs, spatula and whisk in one. They are used for frying, stirring noodles and turning food in the pan. Tip: Pick a pair around 30 cm (12 in) long for cooking at the stove.
Otoshibuta (drop lid)
A small lid that sits directly on top of simmering food, so a little liquid flavors everything evenly and ingredients do not break apart. Wooden ones are traditional; silicone ones are easier to clean and fit several pot sizes. Tip: Silicone is the practical choice for people new to Japanese cooking.
Japanese peeler
Japanese peelers tend to be small, light and very sharp, and many include a julienne blade for fine strips of carrot or daikon. A good one makes an ordinary task noticeably quicker. Tip: Look for a model with a stainless blade and a julienne side.
Ceramic grater
For grating ginger, garlic and daikon into a fine paste. Ceramic graters are cheap, do not rust and wipe clean in seconds. Tip: A small round one fits easily in a stocking.
For rice lovers
Shamoji (rice paddle)
The flat paddle used to fluff and serve rice. Modern versions have a textured surface so rice does not stick, and some stand upright on the counter. Tip: A stand-up paddle saves a spoon rest.
Onigiri mold
A simple plastic mold that shapes rice balls in seconds, so they hold together for lunch boxes and picnics. Tip: Sets with several shapes, triangles and rounds, are popular with families.
For lunch packers
Bento picks and silicone cups
Small dividers, cups and picks are how Japanese bento boxes stay neat and colorful. They are inexpensive and instantly make a packed lunch look more appealing. Tip: Silicone cups are reusable and handle the microwave and dishwasher.
For the table
Wakasa-nuri chopsticks
Lacquered chopsticks from Obama, in Fukui Prefecture, where most of Japan’s chopsticks are made. Each pair has layered lacquer patterns, and they make a lovely, personal gift. Tip: Many shops sell matching pairs for couples.
Hashioki (chopstick rests)
Little ceramic rests that keep chopsticks off the table. They come in seasonal shapes such as fish, leaves and cherry blossoms, and Japanese households often switch them with the seasons. Tip: A set of five in different shapes makes a charming gift.
Cloths and towels
Kaya fukin cooking cloth
The thin, layered cloth that Japanese households use for drying dishes and wiping counters. It dries fast and gets softer with every wash. Also featured in the full Japanese kitchen gift guide. Tip: Buy two: one for the recipient and one to keep.
Tenugui
A thin cotton cloth with printed patterns, used in Japan as a hand towel, dish cover, gift wrap or wall hanging. Patterns range from traditional waves to modern designs. Tip: Use a tenugui to wrap another small gift for a double present.
Quick picks
- For the serious cook: saibashi plus a ceramic grater
- For families: onigiri mold plus bento picks
- For someone who has everything: wakasa-nuri chopsticks
- For the easiest win: kaya fukin cooking cloth
Looking for a bigger gift? See the Japanese kitchen gift guide by budget, or how to pick a Japanese knife as a gift.