About wrapping paper and gift wrapping paper

This refers to the paper used to wrap gifts. It is one of the traditional forms of packaging used in Japan's gift-giving culture and has a history of over 1,000 years.
Here we provide a simple explanation of how to use wrapping paper and noshi paper, as well as basic knowledge about them.
We hope this will be helpful when giving a gift for the first time or when you are unsure how to wrap it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Reasons for using wrapping paper and gift wrapping paper

By choosing the appropriate gift wrapping paper based on the purpose and recipient of the gift, you can show your consideration for the recipient.
They are used in a variety of occasions, such as for celebrations, gifts of gratitude, seasonal gifts, and condolences (gifts of sympathy), and have the advantage of letting you know at a glance who the gift is from and what purpose it was given for.

The difference between wrapping paper and noshi paper

"Kakigami" is the white paper that is wrapped around a gift. When a "kakigami" has a picture of a "noshi" printed on it, it is called "noshi paper."
"Noshi" is a tradition that has been passed down to the present day from the time when awabi, a precious food source, was attached to gifts as a lucky charm, made by stretching awabi (abalone) into long, thin strips and tying them together before the Heian period. It is used for gifts on happy occasions.

Basic composition and selection of wrapping paper

1. Noshi (wrapping paper): Noshi is used to express good luck and joy, so choose "yes" for happy occasions and "no" for sad occasions. (As an exception, noshi may be used when visiting someone in hospital, depending on the situation.)

② Mizuhiki (traditional Japanese string): Choose the "tying method" and "color" according to the situation.

3) Omote-kaki (gift envelope): Expresses the purpose of the gift (e.g., “Congratulations,” “Celebration gift,” “For the deceased’s soul,” etc.)

4. Name: Enter the name of the giver. This will let you know who the gift is from.

It is standard to include an inscription and a name on the wrapping paper, but sometimes you may want to leave out an inscription or name if you want it to look formal but not too ostentatious.

Points to consider when choosing wrapping paper

The general framework has been established through long-standing custom, so you can choose the one you think is most appropriate depending on your position and situation.