Kurashiki's delicacies include beautifully boxed muscat gapes (US$20 for a small bunch!), white peaches (only seasonal and equally expensive), mamakari sushi (sardine-like fish) and Murasuzume, crepe-like dessert with red-bean filling (now that we can afford!) Unfortunately, the latter is best eaten hot and fresh, not the best of gifts to bring home.
Stroll along the historical streets and along the canal and try the local snacks available there. For affordable shopping, try the 1000 yen (US$8) shop located diagonally across the Folkcraft museum (cross over the canal) or just after the Archaeological museum. It sells a hotchpotch of items from local handicrafts to accessories and clothes.
If you are pressured for time, there is always the sovenir shops at the good old JR train station for that last minute purchases.