Paradise of the South Pacific! 4 Souvenirs from Nature-Rich Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is an island nation in the South Pacific, consisting of more than 600 islands, both large and small. Its greatest charm lies in its untouched natural beauty and the traditional culture that indigenous tribes have preserved since ancient times. In recent years, tourism has developed, offering trekking in pristine nature, tours that allow interactions with indigenous tribes, and diving spots in the South Pacific's stunning waters. This time, we introduce souvenirs from this "Paradise of the South Pacific," Papua New Guinea.
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Paradise of the South Pacific! 4 Souvenirs from Nature-Rich Papua New Guinea
1. Bilum
Bilum is a classic souvenir that anyone familiar with Papua New Guinea knows. It comes in various forms, such as necklaces and bags. Some necklaces are made using "shell money," which is still used in ceremonies today. Each bilum is handmade, woven from tree bark or wool and dyed with colorful patterns. Since it is stretchable, it can hold many items, making it highly practical.
You can buy a bilum anywhere in Papua New Guinea. The types of shells used for decoration and the patterns vary by region, so it's a good idea to explore and find your favorite one. Prices start at around 1,000 yen, making it an affordable souvenir.
2. Wooden Masks from the Sepik River Region
The masks of Papua New Guinea are crafted in the image of spirits, stemming from the indigenous beliefs of the people who have lived on New Guinea Island for centuries. These masks, with their humorous expressions and detailed paintings, are recognized as primitive art and highly valued by experts. Each region has unique features, so you can see differences in design and painting techniques.
Bringing one home as a souvenir and using it as interior decor will surely transform the atmosphere of your room! It may also be a great gift for someone who owns a shop.
3. Coffee
Papua New Guinea is known for its specialty coffee, such as "Mount Hagen" Sigri Coffee and "Goroka Coffee," which are exported worldwide. It is said that the country started cultivating coffee beans from Jamaica’s famous "Blue Mountain" region. Organic coffee is also available, making it a great choice for those who prefer natural products. Coffee is a representative souvenir from Papua New Guinea that you can easily bring back for colleagues or friends. Gift sets are also available, so why not take one home?
4. Rum
Rum is also widely enjoyed in Papua New Guinea. A notable feature is that many local rums have a very high alcohol content. You can buy them at local supermarkets. The most common way to drink it is by mixing it with cola to make a "Cuba Libre." Despite its strong appearance, the taste is surprisingly smooth and refreshing, making it a popular choice. Many rum brands have unique packaging designs inspired by Papua New Guinea’s culture, so bringing back a rare local brand as a souvenir might be a great idea.
◎ Summary
Although not mentioned in this list, Papua New Guinea also cultivates cacao along with coffee, so chocolate might be another great souvenir option. Wooden keychains sold at the airport are also popular, so if you forget to buy souvenirs, be sure to check them out. When traveling to Papua New Guinea, if you're unsure what souvenirs to get, consider these four recommendations and choose the best one for your recipient.
