What do people eat at New Year in Japan? Our Tokyo tour guide Laura Tells us
Hey there, foodie adventurers! If you've ever wondered how our friends in Japan kick off the New Year, get ready for a mouthwatering journey into the heart of Japanese traditions with the help of our Tokyo tour guide, Laura. We're diving headfirst into the delicious world of Toshikoshi Soba and Osechi, two iconic dishes that make the celebration extra special.
TOSHIKOSHI SOBA
OSECHI
Toshikoshi Soba: Slurping into Good Vibes
Picture this: the clock strikes midnight, and families all across Japan are gathered around the dinner table. What's the star of the show? Toshikoshi Soba! It's not just any noodle soup; it's a symbol of longevity, good fortune, and the perfect way to bid adieu to the old and welcome the new.
These buckwheat noodles are like the magic wands of the culinary world, promising a year filled with good luck and prosperity with every slurp. The tradition is simple but oh-so-meaningful, making Toshikoshi Soba a must-have dish for New Year's Eve festivities.
Photo credit: Our Tokyo tour guide Laura Blackhall. Toshikoshi soba with shrimp tempura made by Laura’s husband on New Years eve 2023.
Osechi: A Bento Box Packed with Tradition and Flavor
Now, let's talk about Osechi – the ultimate New Year's feast packed into a beautiful box. Imagine a treasure chest of flavors, each dish a work of art with its own lucky meaning. Black beans, sweet black soybeans, fish cake, and sweet rolled omelet – it's a symphony of tastes and colors meant to bring joy, happiness, and good fortune.
Some common Osechi components include:
Kuromame (Black Beans): Symbolizing hard work and health.
Kazunoko (Herring Roe): Representing fertility and a prosperous family.
Datemaki (Sweet Rolled Omelet): Signifying knowledge and scholarship.
Tazukuri (Candied Sardines): Wishing for an abundant harvest.
But here's the real secret behind Osechi – it's not just a meal; it's a labor of love. Families pour their hearts into crafting these tiny masterpieces, passing down recipes like precious heirlooms. The result? A New Year's spread that's not only delicious but also a visual feast for the eyes.
Photo credit: Our Tokyo tour guide Laura Blackhall. Osechi bought from Takashimaya department store.
As your friendly Tokyo tour operators, we can't help but get excited about these culinary traditions. Toshikoshi Soba and Osechi aren't just dishes; they're invitations to join the Japanese people in celebrating the start of a brand-new chapter. So, if you are in Japan for the New Year and are looking for a food or just looking for a taste of Japanese culture, make sure to add these delightful traditions to your list of your Japan things to do.
As the clock ticks down to the New Year, let's raise our chopsticks to Toshikoshi Soba, Osechi, and the fantastic journey that lies ahead!
Cheers to a year filled with delicious adventures and unforgettable memories! 🍜🎉
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