 |
The
Origins of Oseibo |
 The
main origin of oseibo is the custom of presenting gifts to parents to
honor the spirit of ancestors at the start of a new year. It is also said
that in the Edo period (1603-1867), as a New Year greeting, gifts of kagamimochi
(round rice cakes) were presented to main families from branch families
and to teachers from apprentices.
|
The
Oseibo Period |
Traditionally, people
sent oseibo gifts around December 13, the start of preparation for the
New Year. Nowadays, the oseibo period is anytime during the month of December,
although most people try to send the gifts so they arrive by the 20th.
|
Who
to Send to? How Much? |
People usually send
to parents, relatives, friends, acquaintances, teachers and go-betweens.
Many businesses also give to their clients. Gifts usually cost 3,000 to
5,000 yen.
|
Other
Popular Gift Items |
Other popular oseibo
items include meats such as ham and sausages, beer and confectionery.
Gift certificates, beer certificates and cooking oil are also welcome. |
