Presents for host family

I am a university student from Switzerland and I will be staying with a Japanese family this summer. I have troubles finding the right presents for the Mum, Dad, two daughters and one grandchild. I would like to give them something useful and nice. I heard towels in Japan are tiny so people appreciate big towels from abroad. Is this correct? I'd be very grateful for your suggestions!Thanks!

I heard towels in Japan are tiny so people appreciate big towels from abroad. Is this correct?

I've never heard of this...

Normally people try to bring food from their country, unless, of course, you know the family members well already that you can choose gift for each of them.

Last year we have found things like hand cream that is unique to your country very well received by the ladies: so much so that we were specifically requested to bring it again this year. Books (lightweight ones) about your country are also very well received.

It's true in Asian countries the towels are small and thin. Large towels are a good idea!

I heard towels in Japan are tiny so people appreciate big towels from abroad. Is this correct?

This is simply not true.

It's true in Asian countries the towels are small and thin. Large towels are a good idea!

I don't know about other asian countries but Japan has large sized bath towels. The towels that people often gift are hand towels, and not the only towels available in Japan.

I agree that food would be a better gift. Easier to carry and much more representative of your country.

While it is true Japanese bath towels are not as big as hotel towels that Americans seem to prefer, I think they are big enough. Besides, I don't think those thick and heavy towels are convenient for Japanese life style.

Some local foods, cofee, tea, and so on will be more appreciates.

I have stayed with 2 different host families in Japan twice each, and both had towels that were maybe twice the size of a regular hand towel. Coming from Australia, this was very small for me.

However, like others have pointed out, I don't think all families are like this, and I think it would be a bit weird giving them larger towels. I say just go with something native to your own country.