Meisan
As Meisan ( jap. 名産 , literally "well-known product") or meibutsu ( 名物 , "well-known thing") are in Japan traditional crafts and food referred to, which are considered regional specialties. Each region in Japan has its own Meisan, which is sold in souvenir shops ( omiyage ).
When it comes to food, Meisan is mainly Senbei (rice crackers), sweets with anko (bean paste), pickled radish and other vegetables ( tsukemono ), as well as fish products in many local varieties.
The craft includes wood carvings, lacquer work, fabrics, ceramics and fans. The quality of Meisan's articles spans the entire spectrum from cheap kitsch to valuable works of art that have been made by particularly respected craftsmen, so-called “ living national treasures ”.
The Meisan industry makes an important contribution to promoting the economically weak rural areas and preventing traditional crafts from becoming extinct. It is also a means of identification with one's own origin ( furusato ).