Today, when I arrived home from work, I looked in my mailbox and saw a small gift bag from Japan. Who could that be from? And then I remembered that a regular blog reader (Izumi) had come to visit Seattle this fall. Sure enough, it was from Izumi, whom I had caught up with during her vacation earlier this year. I was pretty touched at the thoughtfulness. It was obvious that a lot of care went into it. To be honest, I think it’s much easier to give gifts in life rather than to receive them. The problem with getting gifts is that I find myself at a loss for the right words. I want to say more than just a simple ‘thank you.’
The little gift package of things was totally adorable. In it, there was a 3-pack of Christmas Blend Coffee Essence (this is what Via Ready Brew is called in Japan) shaped like a red cup. I really thought the cute little Starbucks snowman pin (the kind you might wear on a green apron or lapel) was too cute. Notice that there was a some sort of little pamphlet which described one of the current holiday beverages in Starbucks Japan as the Crushed Marron Pie Latte or Crushed Marron Pie Frappucino. I have a tough time imagining what that tastes like, but I notice that Starbucks Japan gets the most creative Frappuccino beverages! (Click onto all of the photos to make them larger.)
I loved that in Starbucks Japan, you can buy an actual Starbucks Christmas Card which includes a brown envelop for mailing. The inside is blank for your personal message. Izumi filled it with kind words! She says she reads this blog all the time!
There was a large flyer which unfolded into a brochure featuring the full lineup of Starbucks Japan 2013 holiday gifts. Notice that it looks like they have many more tumblers than we do here! I also think it’s interesting that they appear to have some sort of Advent Calendar Christmas Tree!
I just wanted to say a big thank you to Izumi. Hope you enjoy this tiny glimpse of Starbucks Japan holiday offerings too.
Melody
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What an amazing range of gifts they have in Japan! It goes to show how poorly served we are in the UK were there are so few gifts available.
Japan has the cutest merchandise! My neighbor is originally from Japan and is sweet to get me gifts when she goes back for a visit. she said any seasonal stuff sells out immediately. A friend of mine recently gifted me a Sakura tumbler from Japan. Its almost too cute to use but I want to make good use of it! That was so very sweet and thoughtful of Izumi to send you a gift. You do so much for everyone too Melody!
I just saw these on ebay, may have bought a pin of a Christmas tree with the siren on top… So cool, can’t wait till next year to pin it on my apron!
Really adorable stuff and so kind and thoughtful of Izumi ! I’ve heard how different the merchandise, especially, is in different countries. I love the little snowman pin, too!
@Melody – I enjoyed seeing your gift, thanks for sharing. I particularly liked the snowman pin.
Melody, It’s official! I must move to Japan for the Starbucks merchandise!
Japan has much better merchandise than we have over here in the states. I also think their drink menu is more creative as well. Though I will say since I’m Asian I might be biased towards the drink flavors. ^___^
Matron is French for chestnut- I looooove chestnut-flavored anything but it’s rare to find it in the US 🙁
These goodies look awesome!
Marron, not matron! (Shakes fist at autocorrect)
@Clare – I had wondered what you meant! 🙂 I didn’t realize it’s a chestnut latte, but sounds great!
That is so cool!