Unusual Japanese Gifts

• Get a quirky gift from Japan. Yagi Studio/Photodisc/Getty Images

  In a country where you can get lingerie and live beetles from vending machines, you'd probably expect to be able to find some unusual gift items. Japan is known for eccentric novelty products, many of which are available in the United States either through direct shipping or importers. For someone who embraces the quirky, an unusual Japanese gift might be the perfect option.

Fukusuke Doll

• In Japanese culture, the gift of a Fukusuke doll is said to bring good luck and to make business prosperous. These dolls are generally made out of materials like rayon or silk and portray a plump, smiling person crouched on a mat. You can also get a parody of the Fukusuke doll known as Bad Fukusuke, the naughty twin of a traditional doll.

Girlfriend Knee Pillow

• For a single person yearning for the comfort of another's lap, get him an artificial one from Japan as a gift. The Girlfriend Knee Pillow is a life-size model of a kneeling set of legs that cuts off at the waste. Place the pillow on the floor or on the bed for an unusual place to rest your head.

Nap Helmet

• If you know someone who makes long, early morning commutes on the train everyday get them a nap helmet from Japan. This helmet sticks to the train window with a plunger-like device. Place the helmet on your head and lean back to attach it. When you fall asleep, there'll be no worrying about your head dropping forward as the helmet holds it upright.

Cardboard Speakers

• For the music lover who's always on the go, gift her a pair of cardboard speakers from Japan. These speakers fold down flat when not in use. When you want to hear the music out loud, pop up the speakers and plug them into your mp3 player.