Ochugen (お中元) summer gifting

Part of being an expat is learning new cultures and customs, including things like gift-giving practices. One of them is Ochugen (お中元), a summer-season gift giving practice, similar to Oseibo at the end of the year.  Traditionally, it's a way to thank others for their support in the first half of the year, and unlike other gifts, no return gift is expected, although a thank you call or note is polite! 

The custom's timing also is dependent on the region: for example, in Kanto it's usually done in the first half of July, but in Kansai it's often from July 15th to August 15th.

A recent survey of 200 adults by Happy Mail and IBEC found that about 30% still give these midsummer gifts with the other 70% abstaining from it, giving reasons like the cost (relatable for most of us!) or simply not having anyone to give gifts to. Those who do participate most commonly give to parents, siblings, and relatives, and the typical budget mentioned by respondents was around 3,000 to 5,000 yen, which was enough to be thoughtful without burdening the recipient.

Some popular Ochugen gifts include beer or wine, processed meats, tea or coffee, sweets like ice cream and jelly, and seasonal fruits. If you're looking for what not to gift, though, items like cutting tools, footwear, cash, or handkerchiefs are a no-no due to cultural taboos.

Is Ochugen a gifting practice you participate in during summer here? Have you ever received an Ochugen gift?