Lesson 53 Must-Buy Items for Tourists
Topic Question: What are some must-buy items for foreign tourists visiting Japan?
No. 1: Introduction– First, try answering the question yourself.
The instructor will provide advice on vocabulary, grammar, and expression corrections.
Sample Answer – Let’s read aloud. Instructor will check your pronunciation and accent.
Japan offers a rich tapestry of items that capture the essence of its culture, technology, and artistry, making it a paradise for shoppers. For foreign tourists, there are several must-buy items that range from traditional crafts to cutting-edge electronics. Japanese snacks, like matcha-flavored KitKats and Pocky, offer a taste of Japan’s unique flavors. Traditional crafts such as kimonos, yukatas, and intricate pottery pieces embody the country’s rich cultural heritage. High-quality skincare products from brands like Shiseido and SK-II are sought after for their excellence. Additionally, Japan’s advanced technology makes gadgets and electronics a top choice for tourists. Stationery enthusiasts will find a wide variety of meticulously designed items, including fountain pens and washi tape. Collectibles such as anime figurines and manga are also popular among fans of Japanese pop culture. These items not only serve as souvenirs but also as bridges between cultures, allowing tourists to bring a piece of Japan back home.
No. 2: Vocabulary Building－ 5 Words to Learn and Their Meanings
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly
- Crafts (工芸品, kōgeihin): Objects made by hand, often with traditional methods.
“Japanese crafts, such as pottery and calligraphy tools, are celebrated for their beauty and craftsmanship.”
- Skincare (スキンケア): The range of practices that support skin integrity, enhance its appearance, and relieve skin conditions.
“Japan is renowned for its high-quality skincare products, incorporating advanced technology and natural ingredients.”
- Gadgets (ガジェット): Small mechanical or electronic devices or tools, especially an ingenious or novel one.
“The latest gadgets from Japan often feature cutting-edge technology that is not yet available elsewhere.”
- Stationery (文房具, bunbōgu): Materials used for writing, office work, or schoolwork, such as paper, pens, and envelopes.
“Japanese stationery is known for its quality, innovation, and aesthetic design, appealing to artists and professionals alike.”
- Collectibles (コレクタブル): Items worth collecting because they are interesting, valuable, or rare.
“Anime figurines and limited-edition manga are among the collectibles that tourists seek out in Japan.”
No. 3: Key Idiom and Example Sentences
“A taste of home” – This phrase refers to something that reminds someone of their home country or the comfort of home.
“Japanese snacks provide a ‘taste of home’ for many visitors, reminding them of their travels long after they’ve returned.”
“Bringing back traditional Japanese crafts can give one’s home a ‘taste of home,’ infusing it with the essence of Japanese culture.”
No. 4: Discussion and Exchange of Opinions on the Sample Answer
Instructor: How do these must-buy items reflect the diversity and innovation of Japanese culture? Which items do you think offer the most authentic experience of Japan?
Student: [Opinions of students]
No. 5: Free Discussion on the Topic
Let’s explore how the popularity of certain items among tourists has impacted local industries and cultural preservation in Japan. Discuss the balance between commercialization and the preservation of traditional crafts. Additionally, consider how global interest in Japanese products has influenced international perceptions of Japan. What are some emerging trends in souvenirs and must-buy items from Japan? Share personal experiences or items you or someone you know has brought back from Japan, and discuss their significance.
