Everyone says the Japanese are living in 2050. But one of the most gracious aspects of their culture is deeply rooted in tradition: wrapping gifts in cloth.
Japanese culture has enamored the world in so many ways. From its cuisine to its funky street style, it has woven itself into our everyday. One of the most charming things about them is also a representation of their grace as a people—gift-giving.
For them, giving a gift is not only polite but also shows affection, letting family and friends know they were on your mind. The Japanese take this a step further with the use of furoshiki, or the elegant wrapping of gifts in cloth, turning even the simplest item into something meaningful. And yes, sometimes the most important gift you can give… is to yourself.
Metrobank recently brought together guests to celebrate the beauty and mindfulness of furoshiki. And with “ber” months just around the corner, meaning gift lists, holiday shopping, and the art of thoughtful giving are already on people’s minds.
Furoshiki dates back to the Nara period, sometime in the 7th century, to wrap and protect precious items. Centuries later, it was used to wrap clothes by the lords when they went to a Japanese onsen. To ensure that their garments were not mixed up with that of others, they used cloth that was marked with their family crest. In fact, it is this use where furoshiki gets its name—furo (bath), and shiki (spread).
When the world moved into the modern age, the use of this piece of cloth, which on the average was the size of a large shawl, went on to more practical uses. It has been used to carry food or the day’s shopping, to transport delicate items, and to pack your lunch or bento box. In a sudden need of a picnic blanket? Furoshiki to the rescue. As it continued to grow in popularity, the designs of these beautiful cloths became more elaborate, earning their spot as wall art, or even as a shawl. Trés chic! How to use it really depends on how creative you get!
The favorite, or perhaps, the most popular use of furoshiki is as gift-wrapper. The artful folding, which mimics origami, adds to the beautiful sentiment behind the presents the Japanese love to give to their kin. From the thoughtful folding to the colorful patterns, each one feels like a little piece of art.
Also, nothing goes to waste, as the pieces of cloth are returned to the giver, with the intent for it to be reused for the next gift, or perhaps for a more practical purpose. Not only do these gifts inspire appreciation from the recipient, but the circular nature of this tradition adds to the sustainable practices the world needs more of.
Related story: Stealth wealth is the new flex of the one percent
Related story: Holiday gift guide for bookworms by a bookworm
Related story: How Labubu turned Pop Mart founder Wang Ning into China’s 10th richest man
When it comes to gift-giving, it is important to include oneself on that list, whether or not it’s wrapped in such a pretty way. After all, the ‘ber months are but a few weeks away, with bonuses and 13th-month pay soon on its way. So it’s a good idea to do a little bit of planning to stretch this annual windfall.
Financial goals and gift-giving
True to its mantra of “you’re in good hands with Metrobank,” executives from the bank gave some easy tips on how to hit those financial goals as a gift to yourself during the event.
Metrobank Chief Marketing Officer Digs Dimagiba said, “We encourage all Filipinos to become more financially mindful and resilient by redefining our usual holiday traditions when it comes to financial planning. Let us all start making our resolutions early in August—take the time to reflect, make just one smart goal that you can publicly commit to, and inspire others to join you so you have a support system and this time, you, as well as your family and friends, can all finally accomplish your resolutions and grow together.”
Here are more tips from Metrobank to make the holidays less financially stressful.
- Invest now, enjoy more later! At any time of the year, when some extra cash comes your way, commit to saving a portion for investments that grow in value. Before you know it, you’ll have enough set aside for that dream vacay.
- Stick to a budget! Ooh, this is a sticky point indeed! While you may be set on finding the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones, don’t forget your budget, and keep your eyes on the bigger prize!
- Keep an eye out for a good deal! When it’s peak shopping season, the best way to stay on track is to watch out for sales and promos. You never know what you’ll find! This applies to shopping for investments, with good returns on your hard-earned cash.
- Find an accountability partner! Whether you are setting money aside for an emergency fund, that dream vacation, or a major life goal, share this commitment with the people closest to you. Or even on social media (sans, perhaps, any real specifics), and tag others to do the same! That community spirit and support system is a big step towards making big things happen.
The idea of mindfully setting aside money—whether it’s for a rainy day or for something you’ve always wanted to do or have—is an ode to the art of furoshiki.
At the heart of both is the idea of making purposeful use of what has been given. To not be wasteful, or when it comes to spending, to not be overly extravagant. And still touch the lives of those in whose hands those gifts will land, which includes you.
With a storied history of 1,200 years, furoshiki is a tradition that is not one to be balked at. Perhaps that is the key to living a happy and, in all ways, a healthy life.
Related story: Four important financial lessons we learned from dads
Related story: Meet Alice Walton, Walmart heiress and world’s richest woman in 2025
