The holiday season is the perfect time for Secret Santa exchanges, but finding that ideal gift can be stressful—especially when you're trying to impress someone you might not know that well. The good news? You don't need to settle for boring candles or generic gift cards. If you're searching for authentic Japanese products that blend tradition, quality, and affordability, Omakase Tokyo offers an exceptional selection of gifts all under $20. From beauty essentials to culinary treasures and craft supplies, these carefully curated items bring the authentic spirit of Japan right to your doorstep.
Whether you're shopping for a foodie coworker, a beauty-obsessed friend, a craft-loving acquaintance, or someone who simply appreciates unique finds, this Secret Santa gift guide has something special that will make you the hero of your gift exchange.
Why Choose Japanese Gifts from Omakase Tokyo?
Omakase Tokyo specializes in bringing genuine Japanese products to American homes. Their mission is to recreate the same unforgettable experiences you'd have while traveling through Japan—from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto. Every product is authentic, carefully selected, and represents the quality and craftsmanship Japan is renowned for worldwide.
1. Japanese Washi Chiyogami Flower Paper (24 Sheets, 3 Patterns)($19.49)
Bring the beauty of traditional Japanese paper art to your crafting projects with this exquisite washi origami paper set. Made from high-quality washi paper, this collection features three stunning traditional patterns inspired by Japanese nature and culture: Nadeshiko (Pink Dianthus), Chrysanthemum & Cherry Blossoms, and Sushiku (Chrysanthemum). With 8 sheets of each design, you'll have 24 sheets total to create origami masterpieces, enhance scrapbooks, or add decorative touches to gift wrapping.
Perfect for: Craft enthusiasts, scrapbookers, origami lovers, teachers, or anyone who appreciates traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Why it's great: Authentic Japanese washi paper with seasonal motifs that add elegance to any creative project. At just 50 grams, it's lightweight yet durable and showcases the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese design.
2. Nippon Chuko Small String Tenugui – Navy Blue (33 × 90 cm)($17.07)
A tenugui is a versatile traditional Japanese cotton towel that's been used for centuries in Japan. This navy blue tenugui measures 33 × 90 cm and is made from 100% cotton, offering exceptional softness, breathability, and absorbency. Unlike regular towels, tenugui are incredibly versatile—use them as hand towels, headbands, gift wrap, decorative wall art, table runners, or even as a stylish accessory.
Perfect for: Minimalists, travelers, yoga enthusiasts, home decorators, or anyone interested in traditional Japanese lifestyle products.
Why it's great: Made in Japan with traditional dyeing and printing methods, this lightweight cloth dries quickly and serves multiple purposes. It's a practical yet beautiful gift that embodies Japanese functionality and aesthetics.
3. Meiji Fruit Gummy Famous Flavor Assorted 3 Pack($10.49)
Treat your loved ones to Japan's most beloved gummy candies! This assorted pack includes three different flavors from Meiji, one of Japan's most trusted confectionery brands. Made with real fruit juice, these gummies deliver intense, authentic fruit flavors with a perfectly soft and chewy texture. The current assortment includes Satsuma Mandarin, Muscat Grape, and regular Grape flavors—each individually wrapped for convenient sharing and freshness.
Perfect for: Candy lovers, students, coworkers, stocking stuffers, or anyone who enjoys trying authentic international snacks.
Why it's great: Made with real fruit juice for natural flavor, these gummies offer a taste of Japanese confectionery excellence. The individually wrapped format makes them perfect for sharing or portion control, and at this price point, you can easily gift multiple packs.
4. Pumice Stone with Hyaluronic Acid (18g)($18.99)
This isn't your ordinary pumice stone! Infused with hyaluronic acid, this Japanese beauty tool gently exfoliates dead skin cells while simultaneously hydrating your skin. It's perfect for smoothing rough patches on feet, elbows, and heels without leaving skin dry or irritated. The lightweight 18-gram stone is easy to use and delivers spa-quality results at home.
Perfect for: Beauty enthusiasts, anyone who loves self-care routines, people who spend a lot of time on their feet, or those who appreciate innovative Japanese beauty products.
Why it's great: The combination of exfoliation and hydration in one tool is uniquely Japanese. Made in Japan with quality craftsmanship, it transforms rough, dry skin into smooth, moisturized perfection—making it an ideal gift for pampering loved ones.
5. Ebisu Rice Ball Storage Container Set PG-3150 (4 Pieces)($18.49)
Give the gift of convenient, authentic Japanese meal prep! This set of four rice ball-shaped containers is specifically designed to store onigiri (Japanese rice balls) at the perfect portion size. Each container is microwave-safe, freezer-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making meal prep and storage incredibly easy. Perfect for anyone who enjoys Japanese cuisine, meal preps for busy weeks, or wants to pack convenient lunches.
Perfect for: Busy professionals, students, parents packing school lunches, Japanese food enthusiasts, or anyone interested in bento culture.
Why it's great: These containers preserve the shape and freshness of rice balls while offering ultimate convenience. Made in Japan with thoughtful design, they make enjoying homemade onigiri easier than ever—whether fresh, frozen, or reheated.
6. Kose Sekkisui Clear Face Wash (120g)($19.99)
Japanese skincare is globally renowned, and this Kose face wash exemplifies why. The Sekkisui Clear Face Wash is enriched with traditional Japanese botanicals and creates a rich, creamy foam that deeply cleanses without stripping skin. It effectively removes dirt, excess oil, and old keratin to prevent dullness and breakouts while promoting an even, glowing complexion. The formula rinses off quickly without residue, leaving skin hydrated, smooth, and radiant.
Perfect for: Skincare enthusiasts, anyone struggling with dull skin or uneven tone, people interested in J-beauty products, or those who appreciate gentle yet effective cleansers.
Why it's great: Made in Japan with traditional botanicals, this cleanser delivers the brightening and clarifying results Japanese skincare is famous for. The 120g size offers excellent value and will last months with daily use.
7. Kewpie Sesame Dressing (380ml)($14.99)
Transform ordinary salads and dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences with this iconic Japanese dressing. Kewpie's Sesame Dressing features deeply roasted sesame seeds blended with a creamy soy sauce base, egg yolk, and shiitake mushroom extract for layers of nutty, tangy, and umami-rich flavor. It's incredibly versatile—perfect for salads, steamed vegetables, noodles, pork dishes, and even as a marinade.
Perfect for: Home cooks, salad lovers, anyone who enjoys Asian cuisine, grill masters, or people looking to elevate their everyday meals.
Why it's great: Kewpie is Japan's most trusted condiment brand, and this dressing brings restaurant-quality flavor to home kitchens. The 380ml bottle provides generous servings, and the complex flavor profile adds instant sophistication to any dish.
8. Itoen Uji Matcha Green Tea Powder (30g)($9.49)
Gift the authentic taste of Kyoto with this 100% pure Uji matcha powder from Itoen, a name synonymous with quality Japanese tea. Traditionally stone-ground from shade-grown tea leaves, this ceremonial-grade matcha boasts a vivid green color and smooth, refined taste. Use it for traditional tea ceremonies, matcha lattes, smoothies, baking, or desserts. This versatile powder can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Perfect for: Tea enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, bakers, matcha latte lovers, or anyone interested in Japanese tea culture.
Why it's great: Authentic Uji matcha from Kyoto—the birthplace of Japanese tea culture—offers exceptional quality and flavor. The 30g size is perfect for trying genuine ceremonial-grade matcha without a large investment, and it's packed with antioxidants and natural energy.
9. Keana Nadeshiko Rice Face Mask (10 Sheets)
Introduce someone to the magic of Japanese sheet masks with this rice serum-infused face mask set. The Keana Nadeshiko Rice Face Mask is specially formulated to minimize the appearance of enlarged pores while delivering deep hydration and nourishment. Rice serum has been treasured in Japan for centuries for its anti-aging and moisturizing properties, leaving skin feeling refreshed, smooth, and youthfully radiant.
Perfect for: Skincare lovers, anyone concerned about pores or aging, self-care enthusiasts, spa day aficionados, or people curious about K-beauty and J-beauty trends.
Why it's great: Made in Japan with traditional rice serum, these masks deliver visible results—smoother skin, minimized pores, and lasting hydration. With 10 sheets in the pack, it's perfect for a weekly pampering ritual or sharing with friends.
10. Kikkoman Always Fresh Flavorful Kelp Soy Sauce (450ml)($17.49)
Elevate everyday cooking with this innovative soy sauce from Kikkoman, Japan's most iconic soy sauce brand. This premium soy sauce is infused with the essence of Hokkaido's Ma-kombu and Hidaka kombu (kelp), creating a symphony of umami flavors. With 25% less salt than regular soy sauce (only 11% salt content), it's a healthier option that doesn't compromise on taste. The airtight sealed bottle keeps the sauce fresh for up to 90 days after opening, preserving its rich color and aroma.
Perfect for: Home cooks, health-conscious foodies, sushi lovers, anyone who enjoys Japanese cuisine, or culinary enthusiasts looking to expand their pantry.
Why it's great: The addition of premium Hokkaido kelp creates unmatched depth and complexity, while the reduced sodium makes it guilt-free. Versatile enough for sushi, marinades, soups, stir-fries, and countless other dishes, this soy sauce is a kitchen essential that inspires culinary creativity.
Creative Gift Bundling Ideas
Maximize your gift-giving impact by combining these items into themed gift sets:
Japanese Beauty Ritual Set: Combine the Kose face wash, rice face mask, and pumice stone for a complete J-beauty skincare experience.
Culinary Adventure Bundle: Pair the Kewpie sesame dressing, Kikkoman kelp soy sauce, and Itoen matcha powder for a Japanese kitchen essentials collection.
Craft & Culture Collection: Bundle the washi paper and tenugui cloth for crafters who appreciate traditional Japanese artistry.
Foodie's Delight: Combine the rice ball containers, Meiji gummies, and sesame dressing for someone who loves Japanese food culture.
Self-Care Spa Set: Package the rice face mask, Kose face wash, and pumice stone in a decorative basket for an at-home spa experience.
Gift Presentation Tips
- Add Personal Touches: Include a handwritten note explaining the cultural significance or suggested uses for each item.
- Use Japanese-Inspired Wrapping: Wrap gifts in the included washi paper or use the tenugui as beautiful, reusable gift wrap.
- Create a Theme: Arrange items in a bamboo basket or decorative box with tissue paper in traditional Japanese colors like red, white, or cherry blossom pink.
- Include Instructions: For items like matcha powder or rice ball containers, include simple recipes or usage tips to help recipients get started.
Why Shop Omakase Tokyo?
Authentic Products: Every item is genuinely made in Japan, ensuring you're giving gifts of true quality and craftsmanship.
Affordable Shipping: Flat-rate shipping of $19.50 makes it easy to order multiple gifts, with free shipping on orders over $200.
Unique Selection: Many of these products are difficult to find elsewhere in the United States, making your gifts truly special and memorable.
Quality Guarantee: Omakase Tokyo carefully curates each product, ensuring it meets high standards of authenticity and excellence.
Final Thoughts
These 10 holiday gift ideas under $20 from Omakase Tokyo prove that meaningful, unique gifts don't require a big budget. Each product represents the quality, innovation, and tradition that Japanese culture is celebrated for worldwide. Whether you're introducing someone to J-beauty, helping them explore Japanese cuisine, or sharing the joy of traditional crafts, these gifts offer authentic experiences that create lasting memories.
From the kitchen to the bathroom, from craft tables to dining tables, these versatile gifts suit every interest and lifestyle. They're perfect for holiday gift exchanges, stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, hostess presents, or simply showing someone you care with a thoughtful, culturally rich offering.
Start your holiday shopping today at Omakase Tokyo and discover the joy of giving authentic Japanese gifts that delight, surprise, and inspire. Your loved ones will appreciate the thoughtfulness of these unique treasures from the Land of the Rising Sun!
