OSEIBO is one of Japan's two traditional gift-giving seasons, along with summer's Chugen. O-seibo originated with the custom of placing offerings on ancestors' graves. Over time, the custom morphed into more general gift-giving.
O-seibo are usually sent from early to mid December, and it's good to be delivered by around December 20. Despite the timing, O-seibo gifts are different from Christmas presents.
Everywhere in Japan in December you'll see elaborate displays of Christmas decorations, and Christmas-themed treats intended for gift-giving. But at the same time, you will also see some traditional O-seibo gift. It usually range widely in prices, but the average is about 3,000-5,000 yen per gift. The type and price of gifts depend on the relationship with the recipient. Most items are condiments, beer, tea, canned food, desserts, gift certificates, and lots more. Department stores display many types gifts at the end of the year and in midsummer. Most people ask the store to deliver gifts to recipients.
If you have Japanese customers or good Japanese friends, they will surely appreciate a small gift item at year end, with a seasonal theme, and you don't have to specify whether it's for Oseibo or for Christmas.
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