5 Last-Minute Christmas Gifts That Are Sure to Impress
It’s finally Christmas time, which means that the season of gift giving has also arrived. However, it also means end-of-year deadlines, travel plans and shorter days typically leave you with less time for shopping. Whatever the reason, there is no need to stress. Here are some gift ideas that are readily available in Tokyo that will be sure to impress your friend, family or whoever you need a last-minute present for.
Japanese Zodiac Ornaments
The Japanese Zodiac, is a calendar system wherein specific animals correspond to different years on the Chinese zodiac calendar system, called eto. If you have been to any traditional Japanese buildings or family homes, you may have spotted a small ornamental statue of eto no okimono (the current year’s zodiac animal). This year is the year of the dragon, and for 2025, it will be the year of the snake.
Eto no okimono make for great gifts steeped in tradition. You can buy these in souvenir shops such as the ones found in Asakusa, and more recently, in department stores or e-commerce websites such as Amazon. This is a great gift choice because it’s a decoration that can be used until the next year, and is said to protect the families that place them in their homes.
High-End Coffee Mug or Thermos
A high-end mug or thermos, such as Ember or Yeti, makes for a practical yet lavish gift that’s sure to be appreciated. These are not just everyday drinkware—they’re designed to keep beverages at the perfect temperature, whether it’s a hot coffee on a chilly morning or an iced tea on a sunny afternoon.
Their durability ensures they’ll last for years, making them a gift that’s both practical and memorable. What makes these even more versatile is their universal appeal. Sleek enough to sit on an office desk but still tough enough to survive outdoor adventures, they fit seamlessly into any lifestyle. Ideal for commuters, campers or anyone who enjoys a good drink on the go, a high-quality mug or thermos is a thoughtful choice that shows you care about their daily comforts.
Portable Mini Projector
A portable mini projector is a gift that combines practicality with an immense amount of fun. Compact and easy-to-use, it allows you to transform any space—be it a living room, backyard or even a campsite—into a cozy, private theater. With impressive image quality packed into such a small device, it’s perfect for watching movies, sharing photos or even giving presentations on the go.
Ideal for families looking to host movie nights, friends who love gaming or professionals in need of portable presentation tools, a mini projector fits a variety of lifestyles. Its portability and ease of setup ensure it will be a hit no matter where or how it’s used, making it a thoughtful choice for tech-savvy recipients or anyone who loves entertainment with a personal touch.
Earthenware Hot Pot
No matter what hobbies your friends or family have, everyone can appreciate a hot meal, especially during the colder months. Donabe, or the Japanese hot pot, is a convenient gift that stands apart from the rest. Even those who don’t cook often shouldn’t find it difficult to produce a delicious meal for themselves with a good hot pot.
They are also surprisingly easy to find. You can pick them up at household goods stores such as Muji. This easy-to-use piece of pottery will be well received because it’s something that even larger groups of people can enjoy together during the winter.
Bluetooth or Smart Speaker
Following the trend of gifts that everyone can enjoy, it should be no surprise that music found its way onto this list. Beyond the Bluetooth functionality, you can also buy smart speakers that link to smart devices such as phones, TVs and smart home appliances. Buy them for anyone who likes to be plugged in with the latest technology.
Whether or not the recipient already has a speaker, it never hurts to have a spare. That makes a Bluetooth or Smart speaker a safe idea for anyone worrying about making a good impression. These speakers come in a wide range of features and sizes, which means there are options, regardless of whether you’re shopping on a budget or looking to splurge for someone special. Check Amazon or Rakuten for any discounts, or head to the closest Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera electronics store.
As the year winds down, the holiday rush can make gift shopping feel like a race. However, it’s often the simplest, most accessible gifts that leave the most lasting impression. These presents are a wonderful way to show your appreciation and bring joy to the people you cherish most—and they’re easy to find in a pinch!