What would I bring?

I live in Canada and hope to be going to Japan on an exchange, but when I thought of gifts to bring to my host family, I didn't know. I saw something about bring beef jerky, but I would not what to give them something I myself dislike. Could I please get some suggestions on gifts to a host family? Thank you.

The gifts I brought represented where I'm from. I live in New Mexico, so I brought a few Native American things, like a fetish and a dreamcatcher, and unique foods. I think I brought cactus candy and pinion nuts, both of which they really enjoyed. I brought some magazines (my host father knew a lot of English) that really showed off the unique land that I live in.

I'm sure that there's some unique things/ideas from your area!

Maple syrup makes a good Canadian souvenir, it would be appreciated I'm sure.

Maple syrup may be a little one sided, and possibly found at convenience stores.

Perhaps some sort of gourmet sweets, especially ones that use canadian maple syrup.

I am about to leave for Japan in around 2 weeks, and am in the same boat as you. I am thinking perhaps a box of Fanny May truffles and sweets.

Thank you for the posts.

My GF takes beef jerky back to Tokyo after every visit to the US. (I make it myself) All her friends and even her 83 year old grandmother eat it up fast! I would say take some jerky. It's light and does take up a lot of suitcase space either.

My friends in Japan really like Canadian icewine, Reese Peanut Butter Cups and Poutine.

Maple syrup is more expensive than in Canada, but it's not difficult to find. If you decide to go the maple route, Maple Cream chocolates from Laura Secord are nice.

Canadian icewine is famous around the world, but if you're not old enough to purchase it, you could try icewine chocolates instead (available in many airport gift shops).

As for poutine, you can buy packets of poutine gravy here and purchase the other ingredients once in Japan. (It may be difficult to find cheese curds...I just used shredded mozzarella).