Gift-giving at Christmas still isn't a big tradition in Japan, but that doesn't let you off the hook. We've joined our Japan Times colleagues in doing a little pre-holiday homework for you to take the pressure off. Now all you have to do is whip that wallet out . . .
Tempo Drop
Turning to an app on your smartphone for weather updates, while convenient, can be terribly unexciting. Like a bit of a challenge? With Tempo Drop, you can now forecast the weather by observing the appearance of the liquid in the glass.
S: ¥3990, L: ¥5775, at Cibone
Flex Leather Tray
Too old for a pencil case and too cool for a pencil holder? This minimalistic, sculptable leather tray splits the difference. By the way, know what's uncool? Not knowing where your supplies are and having to borrow them from the next desk. Tsk.
¥3,990 at 100perstore.com
Hand warmers
With the weather getting frostier by the day — and it hasn't even started snowing yet! — what could be more useful and relevant than Christmas-y hand warmers? Even the toughest guy would appreciate one in his jacket pocket when battling the cold on the streets.
¥567; all Loft shops
A few Japan Times columnists and editors have also given us a peek at their carefully curated gift lists. You'll find presents for all your art and design-loving friends as well as stocking stuffers for the film buffs in your life. And don't forget the folks who love Japanese gadgets! Ho ho ho!
