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What the Year of the Fire Horse Means for Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

Elizabeth Sok — Sun, 15 Feb 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Are you ready for the year of the Fire Horse? According to the Chinese Zodiac, this year is viewed as favorable for growth and opportunity. Horses are typically associated with success in Chinese and Japanese culture and people born in the year of the horse are similarly seen as hardworking, ambitious and independent.

However, Japan has several superstitions related to the year of the Fire Horse dating back to the early Edo period (1693-1868). The most notable one is that girls born this year will be ill-suited to marriage because they are hot-tempered. In the last year of the fire horse, 1966, many young couples avoided having a baby due to these fears, causing a one-year dip in the birth rate.

Looking ahead, let’s delve into what the Year of the Fire Horse means for the different Chinese Zodiac signs. Have fun with these predictions and happy 2026!

Rat/Mouse

The year of the fire horse is seen as a “clash” year full of challenges, especially in terms of finances and interpersonal relationships.

Health: Prioritize your health and family to help cope with uncertainty.
Career: Avoid big investments and career changes and try to maintain a steady income.
Love: Singles can meet a partner through friends while married couples may have more disagreements than usual.

Ox/Cow

The next 12 months are considered a conflict year, so avoid big changes across the board and focus instead of saving money and staying put.

Health: Small health challenges may plague you this year, so take care of them early.
Career: Stay where you are and prioritize saving over spending.
Love: If you’re in a relationship, think about taking the next step forward. Singles should be open to meeting others through friends and family.

Tiger

Overall, it’s set to be a productive year, especially on the financial front. If you stay alert, you can overcome challenges this year.

Health: While health outcomes look good, watch out for travel-related outings.
Career: Moving in new directions can lead to growth.
Love: Make sure to prioritize communication in your relationships and attend social functions to meet a partner.

Rabbit

Unfortunately, 2026 is not predicted to be a lucky year for you, but knowing this can help you overcome challenges.

Health: Spend quality time with your family to improve your well being.
Career: Job prospects are good during the winter season. Also, listen to seniors with more experience.
Love: Be patient with your relationships this year to avoid miscommunication and setbacks.

Dragon

This year is set to be a steady year for dragons with neither very good nor very bad luck. Make sure to plan ahead to avoid hiccups along the way.

Health: With proper care, small health challenges can be overcome.
Career: Prioritize skill-building and learning from experienced colleagues.
Love: New relationships may take time to build and communicate openly when in a relationship.

Snake

You are expected to have a particularly lucky year and will especially enjoy significant financial and work success. Keep your heart open in relationships and you will make steady progress.

Health: You may face unexpected health problems this year. Be careful to avoid accidents and injuries at work.
Career: Great work prospects await with a new business or work opportunities.
Love: If you’re single, participate in many social gatherings and you might find an ideal partner.

Horse

It’s your zodiac year and things can feel intense. Being optimistic can help carry you through any challenges that you encounter in this significant year.

Health: Watch out for unexpected problems and be cautious while travelling.
Career: Both career and finances will be steady.
Love: Small relationship problems can snowball so be sure to communicate and compromise.

Goat/Sheep/Ram

Over the following year, you will experience many positives and negatives in your life, making it a balanced and harmonious 12 months. Overall, you will face many positive opportunities for growth and receive a good return on investments.

Health: Your health outlook is good with only minor concerns.
Career: Your career will experience steady growth with a high chance of a promotion and salary increase.
Love: Your love life will progress smoothly with many opportunities to deepen your relationship.

Monkey

2026 marks the beginning of a fresh start after experiencing difficult challenges in recent years. Take the time to refocus your energy and you will make meaningful changes to your life throughout the year.

Health: You may experience some health problems if you neglect self-care due to work commitments.
Career: While you are expected to make some gains, you should seize opportunities to improve your work situation.
Love: Your love life is predicted to go well, but be sure to attend all social events and gatherings to potentially meet your ideal partner.

Rooster

The next 12 months are set to be promising for roosters. Financial success, in particular, is probable while the stars are aligned for romance to flourish.

Health: You’ll feel energized and well-supported, but don’t neglect regular check-ups.
Career: With a change of direction, you can gain recognition and career advancement.
Love: If you’re single, you may meet your future marriage partner. Married roosters, meanwhile, can expect to have a stronger voice in their partnership.

Dog

This year you should experience both positive and negative events that will balance each other. Overall, try to maintain a positive mindset when faced with difficult situations to produce a good outcome.

Health: You may experience health problems, so be sure to take care of yourself to prevent worsening your condition.
Career: Work is predicted to be stable with many opportunities for promotion. Collaboration and working with influential people is key.
Love: Your relationships will remain stable this year. And, if you’re single, don’t worry about finding the ideal partner.

Pig (Boar)

Your steady efforts will result in positive gains on the work front. However, you should be vigilant about your health and mindful of potential deception in romantic and financial relationships.

Health: You may experience lethargy and need treatment, so take good care of yourself.
Career: Working towards clear goals brings success, but watch out for potential financial deception.
Love: Be careful of the intentions of admirers who may aim to use you.

What’s your Chinese Zodiac sign? What do you think 2026 will bring for you? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Immersive Experience: Anemoia Tokyo

Rachel Crane — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A red curtain fluttering beneath the railway tracks. Faces hidden behind white masks. A dark hallway filled with glowing works of art. And then, a call to board a train to another world…

This is Anemoia Tokyo, an immersive theatre production by Japanese contemporary dance company Dazzle. Located near Tokyo station, the show has no seats and no stage. Instead, performers surround the audience, guiding guests into a wordless story told through music, dance and interactive works of art.

Since the performance is entirely non-verbal, anyone can enjoy the show regardless of language. This was part of the reason I decided a ticket would make the perfect birthday gift for my art-loving Japanese partner, knowing we could both enjoy the show together. Here’s what happened when we went behind the curtain.

A Fusion of Art and Entertainment

A cutting-edge fusion of performance, art and technology.

The creatives behind Anemoia Tokyo describe the show as a cutting-edge fusion of performance, art and technology. While the concept of immersive theatre emerged from the London theatre scene, Dazzle has reimagined the form through a Japanese cultural lens. The story takes place in an imagined spirit realm, with dancers embodying figures from Japanese myth and folklore.

Dazzle has also partnered with nine artists from Japan and abroad to furnish the performance space with original works. These contemporary pieces subtly interact with the show’s storytelling, creating a unique hybrid of art and performance.

The Journey Begins

A must-see for anyone interested in dance and performance art.

My boyfriend and I arrived for the late evening performance of Anemoia Tokyo, not knowing quite what to expect. After storing all of our belongings in a locker outside the venue, staff gave us a series of cryptic instructions.

First, we were not allowed to speak to each other once we were inside. Second, we must cover our faces with wolf masks and wear a sticker with a letter of the alphabet on our chests. Finally, we shouldn’t touch anything. That is, unless it was something given to us by the cast, who might have a task for us to complete.

They also asked that we not reveal any details about the performance’s content, so I won’t say too much about what happened next. What I can say is that the experience was unlike anything I’ve encountered in many years as an art and theatre lover—and a must-see for anyone interested in dance and performance art.

How to Experience the Show

Make sure to get tickets while you still can.

Anemoia Tokyo will run until March 15, 2026, so make sure to get tickets while you still can. You can buy tickets via the show’s website, with prices ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥12,000, with discounts for under-twenty-fives and those with disabilities. Doors open 30 minutes before the show, and performances last for approximately 70 minutes.

Dazzle will be unveiling its next immersive theatre performance, Hanayoi Grand Tea Ceremony, at the Kyoto Nippon Festival 2026. This show, in collaboration with renowned photographer Mika Ninagawa and the EiM creative team, will take place at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Details can be found here.

Have you experienced immersive theatre in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments.

Candied Kumquat Recipe: The Tiniest Citrus Fruit With An Edible Peel

Rika Hoffman — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Meet the kinkan (kumquat). Tiny, tart and tantalizing, these little citrus fruits are ideal for a simple kumquat recipe and are easy to find at local supermarkets throughout winter in Japan. Not much larger than an olive, a kinkan ranges in diameter from two to four centimeters. But despite their miniature size, kumquats are packed with flavor and nutrition, and unlike other citrus fruits, they’re often enjoyed whole—skin and all.

Eaten raw, the thin, crunchy peel yields easily to the teeth, the orange orbs bursting with tangy juice. Fragrant oils spray the air, releasing a delicate floral aroma from the pores of the fruit’s sweet, lustrous skin.

When boiled with sugar, kumquats become tender and glossy, tempering the sourness of the fruit’s flesh and preserving its fragrance in a thick nectar. A versatile topping for everything from yogurt to pancakes, we share a simple recipe for kumquats in syrup below.

But first, a little background on the tiniest citrus fruit.

An Auspicious Japanese New Year Food

Known as kinkan no kanroni in Japanese, candied kumquat is a sweet treat, home remedy and palate cleanser rolled into one—which helps explain its popularity among osechi ryori (Japanese New Year cuisine) dishes. It’s the equivalent of eating cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving, with a bright, acidic flavor that cuts through the otherwise heavy (and rather brown—at least in the case of American Thanksgiving) meal.

Like other Japanese New Year foods, kinkan has a symbolic meaning that involves wordplay. 金柑 (kinkan; “kumquat”) is a homonym of 金冠 (kinkan; “golden crown”). If you want to attract wealth in the New Year, a kumquat might just be your golden ticket!

Kinkan is also an auspicious food to eat during the winter solstice in Japan. During this time of year, it’s said that eating foods with two letter n’s (ん and ン in hiragana and katakana) in their names attracts luck. Besides kinkan, this includes foods like ぎんなん (ginnan; “gingko nuts”), にんじん (ninjin; “carrots”) and レンコン (renkon; “lotus root”).

Kumquat Health Benefits

Need another reason to include kinkan in your diet? Kumquats are full of health benefits, including:

High amounts of dietary fiber (especially the peel) for satiety and improved digestion
Antioxidants like vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, promotes iron absorption and stimulates collagen production
Moderate amounts of vitamin A, which is beneficial for the immune system, reproductive system and vision

Popular in Chinese medicine, eating candied kumquats is also a traditional Japanese remedy for sore throat and cough. Steep one or two kumquats in a mug of hot water with a teaspoon of syrup and sip your way to a soothed throat.

Kinkan no Kanroni (Candied Kumquat) Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams (approximately 3 cups) kumquats
250 grams (1 ¼ cup) sugar
400 milliliters (approx. 1 ⅔ cup) water

Instructions

Wash kumquats and make 7-8 vertical cuts into the skin with a knife. This will make it easier to take out the seeds later.
Submerge the kumquats in a pot of water (they should be just covered) and boil for 3-4 minutes.
Drain the kumquats and allow them to cool.
Taking each kumquat one by one, gently remove the seeds by inserting a wooden skewer or chopsticks into the vertical cuts you made earlier.
Combine 400 milliliters of water and 250 grams of sugar in a pot and bring to a boil.
Add the kumquats. They should all fit in an even layer at the bottom of the pot.
Bring the pot of kumquats and syrup back up to a boil over medium heat.
Lower the heat and cover with an otoshibuta (drop lid) to simmer for 30 minutes. If you don’t have an otoshibuta, a piece of parchment paper cut into a circle to fit the pot works just as well.
Once the kumquats have softened and the syrup has thickened, turn off the heat and allow them to cool.
Transfer your kumquats with syrup into a jar. Due to the high sugar content in this recipe (50% of the weight of the kumquats), it keeps pretty well. Store in the fridge for up to one month, or in the freezer for up to three months.

How To Use Candied Kumquat

There are numerous ways to use these plump, candied kumquats and their syrup:

Top yogurt or ice cream with chopped kumquats and a drizzle of syrup
Infuse your tea with candied kumquat and a spoonful of syrup
Replace the simple syrup in a cocktail recipe with sweet kinkan nectar
Soak cake layers with kinkan syrup for added flavor and moisture
Mix chopped kumquats into cake or pancake batter

With a jar of candied kinkan on hand, the possibilities are endless!

Using this kumquat recipe? Share your photos with us via Facebook or Instagram with a hashtag #savvytokyorecipe

Drugstore Skincare in Japan: Breaking Down The Most Popular Brands & Products

Jessica Saabor — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Shopping for drugstore skincare in Japan is such a treat. You can find some of the most innovative, interesting and reasonably priced products in the world, that we think even rival some of the ultra-luxury brands that cost 10 times as much.

However, we also know that deciding exactly what to buy can be confusing, especially in Japanese. That’s why we’re breaking down Japan’s cult drugstore skincare favorites, so that you can confidently shop the products already loved and repurchased by the masses.

Know Before You Go: Japanese Drugstore Skincare

There isn’t too much you need to know before setting foot in a Japanese drugstore. Unlike some other places, 薬局 (yakkyoku; “pharmacies”) and ドラッグストア (doraggu sutoa; “drugstores”) are not the same thing in Japan. The yakkyoku is only for prescription medications, so you won’t be able to shop for skincare here.

There are plenty of different drugstores all over the country, but the most popular chains are Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia and Tsuruha. You can also find all the Japanese drugstore skincare on this list and more in any Donki (along with every other Japanese souvenir imaginable).

Japanese Skincare Words & Phrases

Japanese	Romaji	English
洗顔料	senganryō	Face wash
美容液	biyōeki	Serum / essence
化粧水	keshōsui	Lotion / toner
クリーム	kurīmu	Cream
美白	bihaku	Whitening (meaning brightening, not bleaching)
ニキビ	nikibi	Pimples / acne
しわ	shiwa	Wrinkles
敏感肌	binkan hada	Sensitive skin
乾燥肌 / ドライスキン	kansō hada / dorai sukin	Dry skin
オイリー肌 / スキン	oirī hada / sukin	Oily skin

Hada Labo

Hada Labo is easily one of the most popular skincare brands in Japan, best known for their range of colorful toner and lotion duos. Japanese toner (sometimes referred to as emulsion) differs slightly from its Western counterpart. It’s more of an ultra-lightweight moisturizing step that is applied in very thin layers before being locked in with the slightly thicker lotion (sometimes called moisture milk).

Gokujun 極潤 (White) & Gokujun Premium 極潤プレミアム (Gold)

Hada Labo’s Gokujun toners and lotions are their holy grail products. The white bottles contain the original formulation, which is made with hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturize the skin without leaving a sticky residue. If you prefer a lighter formulation that sinks into the skin faster, then you should opt for the ライトタイプ (raitotaipu; “Light Type”) lotion, or for a little more luxury, choose the gold Premium range, which uses an even more intensified, rich and moisturizing formulation.

Gokujun Aging Care 極潤薬用ハリ化粧水 (Red)

The red Gokujun toner and lotion are specifically formulated to firm and plump the skin, reducing the visible signs of aging. The ingredients include three types of hyaluronic acid for deep moisturization, as well as niacinamide to minimize the appearance of fine lines.

Shirojun 白潤 (Light Blue) & Shirojun Premium 白潤プレミアム (Dark Blue)

While Gokujun focuses on moisturizing, Shirojun is all about “whitening”, meaning it brightens the skin and helps to reduce hyperpigmentation. It contains tranexamic acid, which both reduces dark spots and prevents cells from producing excess pigment in the future. The Shirojun Premium line has similar benefits, but in a richer formula that fights dullness for soft, supple and even skin.

Melano CC

Melano CC is Japan’s premier vitamin C drugstore skincare line, ideal for anyone suffering from dull and tired skin. The products contain high levels of ascorbic acid, a pure form of vitamin C that offers numerous benefits. It reduces dark spots and acne scars, boosts collagen and fights free radicals.

Vitamin C Serum & Premium Vitamin C Serum

Starting with the most well-known products, Melano CC offers these highly concentrated and unique vitamin C serums that contain an impressive amount of stabilized ascorbic acid. They’re designed to brighten dark spots, with only a few drops being needed to cover the whole face. The premium serum is similar to the original, but with additional vitamin C derivatives and moisturizing ingredients.

Vitamin C Facewash

Melano CC’s face wash soared in popularity a few years ago, with people loving the way it leaves skin feeling squeaky clean, but not tight or stripped. It features a fantastic combination of unique enzymes to cleanse gently, along with intensely nourishing ingredients that both clean and care for your skin.

Nameraka Honpo

Nameraka Honpo by Sana has created a really interesting (and very popular) range of skincare products that highlight the beautifying properties of soy milk. The brand is a favorite among various age groups for its ability to promote collagen production and hydrate the skin, resulting in an impressive anti-aging effect.

Soy Milk Wrinkle Eye Cream

The Soy Milk Wrinkle Eye Cream is easily one of the brand’s best-selling products, having also won multiple awards for its ability to reduce fine lines and firm the under-eye skin. It packs a hydration punch with multiple moisturizing ingredients, as well as the rejuvenating properties of soymilk isoflavones and the anti-aging benefits of both retinol and a retinoid.

Soy Milk Wrinkle Night Cream

This thick and luxurious night cream has all the benefits of the wrinkle eye cream, plus additional ceramides to stimulate cell turnover and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s a fantastic product, particularly for drier skin types, that leaves skin feeling soft and not sticky.

Soy Milk Medicated Wrinkle Serum

There’s no cutting corners when it comes to this serum. The ingredient list includes lactic acid to exfoliate gently, retinol to boost blood flow and collagen production, and niacinamide to help restore the skin’s barrier. It works to achieve long-term, firmer and plumper skin, in gentle enough dosages to avoid irritation or inflammation.

Bioré

Bioré is a brand that is widely recognized throughout Japan (and now the world), thanks to its innovative products, particularly its sunscreens. The brand has placed a strong emphasis on making all its products as enjoyable and straightforward to use as possible, while also being some of the most budget-friendly Japanese skincare items available.

The Cleanse Oil Make Up Remover

If you’re looking for a simple, affordable and easy-to-use cleansing oil to break down makeup, debris and SPF, then this is the product for you. It’s also award-winning, having placed first in the 2023 LDK’s beauty awards in the cleansing oil category.

The Face Foaming Facial Cleansers

Bioré is all about the double cleanse, recommending you follow oil cleansing by using one of The Face Foaming Facial Cleansers. This range of foamy face washes features five different, colorful types, making it easy to select the right product for your skin. There’s moist (blue), deep moist (pink), acne care (green), oil control (purple) and smooth clear (yellow).

UV Aqua Rich

You can’t talk about Bioré without mentioning their UV Aqua Rich line of sunscreens. These are the absolute bestsellers in Japan that are as light as water on the skin, quickly absorbed and leave minimal whitecast. The Bioré UV Aqua Rich Water Essence is the most popular formulation, but there are also mist, sweat-resistant and child-friendly formulas.

Curél

Curél offers some of the gentlest Japanese skincare products on the market, which are highly effective yet very affordable. People with sensitive skin especially love the range, as potentially inflammatory ingredients are avoided and replaced with simple, calming alternatives.

Moisturizing Foam Facial Cleanser

This is an excellent product for anyone seeking a gentle face wash that won’t irritate or strip the skin. It’s alcohol, silicon, oil, sulfate and fragrance free, and lathers into a luxuriously creamy foam that delicately washes your skin, leaving it feeling soft to the touch.

Intensive Moisturizing Face Cream

The Intensive Moisturizing Face Cream does exactly as the name suggests. The ingredients include allantoin, which is highly effective in reducing redness and irritation, while tocopherol helps maintain your natural skin lipids, promoting a healthy and strong skin barrier.

Moisture Lip Care Cream

It’s a bold statement, but this might just be one of the best lip balms in Japan. This super-affordable lip cream utilizes squalane to help your lips retain moisture more effectively, making it a must-try, especially during Japan’s severe winter dryness.

Why Is Japanese Drugstore Skincare So Good?

It’s hard to believe that Japanese drugstore skincare can be affordable, readily available and genuinely effective…but trust us, it’s true! The reason behind this is that J-beauty has an entirely different approach to skincare formulation than in the West. It’s all about balance and gentle, long-term results, rather than fast-working actives that can be expensive and irritating to the skin.

Which of these drugstore skincare products will you try first?

Fukubukuro: A Savvy Guide To New Year Lucky Bags

Elizabeth Sok — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Like many countries around the world, Japan concludes the year with Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. But, while you’re doing your Christmas shopping and looking for the perfect nengajo (new year’s greeting card), be on the lookout for something uniquely Japanese: fukubukuro.

Coming from the Japanese words for luck (fuku) and bag (bukuro), fukubukuro quite literally means “lucky bag”. Lucky bags are sold by a wide variety of retailers in Japan, come at various price points and always contain goods at a discounted rate.

While some stores now display the contents of a fukubukuro prior to purchase, others maintain tradition and obscure the merchandise. In these cases, customers will have to rely on luck and hope that they get the jacket or limited-edition figurine they were hoping for.

Keep reading for an overview of lucky bags and get ready to hunt for fukubukuro!

The History Of Fukubukuro

While the origins of fukubukuro are as mysterious as their contents, kimono retailers seem to be at the heart of the leading theories. During the Edo period, kimono shops in the capital began to offer unsold fabrics at reduced prices during the winter, when sales traditionally declined. Like modern fukubukuro, customers didn’t know the exact pieces of cloth they were purchasing.

The predecessor of the Mitsukoshi department store, Nihonbashi’s Ichigoya, was one of the first shops to offer fukubukuro to eager customers looking for bargains. The practice quickly gained popularity and other kimono retailers followed suit.

As mass consumer culture developed at the turn of the 20th century, department stores such as Ginza Matsuya, Mitsukoshi and Matsuzakaya adapted the old practice. In both practice and name, the modern fukubukuro was born around 1900. They contained a wide variety of leftover goods at the end of the year. In Japan’s period of economic prosperity during the 1980s, lucky bags became especially popular as people had more disposable income.

When & Where To Buy The Lucky Bags

Typically, you can purchase a lucky bag starting from January 2, when stores reopen after New Year’s Day. However, in recent years, some stores have begun offering them in December, allowing customers to make reservations or purchase them online.

Fukubukuro are available in almost every kind of shop, from your local convenience store to luxury department stores. Most retailers will advertise in advance the types they will offer.

How Much Are Fukubukuro?

Lucky bags typically cost a few thousand yen (around ¥3,000 to ¥10,000), but depending on the brand and contents, they can range up to and over ¥50,000 as well. Whatever the price, the main point of the fukubukuro is that you’re sure to get a bag full of contents worth more than the retail price.

Price Range Examples:

¥3,000 to ¥4,000: The standard price for supermarket food and convenience store lucky bags.
¥6,000 to ¥9,000: The standard price range for popular brands, anywhere from fashion to miscellaneous goods.
¥10,000 and above: Common for brand-name items, high-end cosmetics and expensive food sets.

Types Of Fukubukuro

There are as many types of lucky bags as there are store types in Japan, which is to say a lot! Many of the most popular ones, however, are related to food and apparel.

Food

The category of food lucky bags is the most expansive and arguably the most popular. If you want a selection of overseas items, you can purchase fukubukuro from import stores, like Kaldi and Kinokuniya. They are also available from many bakeries and sweets retailers at varying price points.

Restaurant chains, ranging from famiresu (family restaurants) and kaiten sushi (conveyor belt sushi) to yakiniku and ramen, offer bags that include a combination of original goods and discount tickets. Most cafe chains, such as Tully’s and Starbucks Japan, arrange their lucky bags similarly, featuring drink tickets and branded items.

Finally, if you want food or drink items directly from producers, such as tea store Lupicia or coffee maker UCC, lucky bags are a great way to buy at a discount.

Home Goods

Another popular fukubukuro type is interior. In this category, you can expect to find a mix of discounted tickets for the store and popular miscellaneous items. Home goods brands, like Bruno, are an excellent choice if you’re moving out or moving to a new home.

Clothes (Kids & Adults)

Clothes lucky bags are quite sought-after, but they do come with a caveat that you can rarely choose the color, size or fit of items. But, if you can be flexible, fukubukuro offer very good prices on slightly upscale brands that rarely post sale prices.

Accessories

Accessories bags are fun if you are not particular about color, type and fit. They can be a useful bag for anyone looking to purchase a fukubukuro as a gift.

Pregnancy & Baby Goods

Stores specializing in baby goods, such as Akachan Honpo, offer lucky bags containing a variety of valuable items for parents with a new baby or toddler, including socks and bodysuits.

Conbini

Convenience stores, such as Family Mart and 7-Eleven, offer lucky bags that combine original goods and coupons for use in their stores nationwide.

Department Stores

At department stores like Mitsukoshi, you can order a fukubukuro for a variety of high-end brands they carry, ranging from food to clothing to accessories. Remember to preorder early for the popular ones and prepare to line up to receive your goods.

Popular Fukubukuro in Japan

Below is a sample of popular lucky bags across the categories discussed above.

Food

Home Goods

Clothes (kids and adults)

Gelato Pique (Kids & Adults)
Comme Ca Ism (Men)
Mila Owen (Women)
Bebe Mall (Kids)

Accessories

Pregnancy & Baby Goods

Combini

Department Stores

Have you ever bought a fukubukuro? How lucky were you? Let us know in the comments!

Shicchy’s Charity Fair Review: A Discount Designer Paradise

Rachel Crane — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Last month, a Parisian friend told me about a huge designer sale outside of Tokyo’s fashion shopping districts. Here, she claimed, I could nab both vintage and on-trend pieces from brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Hermès at incredible discounts. This event was Shicchy’s Charity Fair, at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center.

I wanted to get my hands on products that would typically be lightyears beyond my retail budget. As a pawnbroking event, the fair also sounded like an excellent way to shop for sustainable fashion. And if some of the money went to charity, all the better. So, I decided to check it out.

Here’s everything you need to know about Shicchy’s Charity Fair and the products you can find there. Plus, what happened when I went bargain hunting.

What Is Shicchy’s Charity Fair?

Shicchy’s Charity Fair is a bi-annual bargain sales event offering discounts of 30% to 90% on luxury fashion goods. First held in 1972, the fair is now one of the biggest pawnbroker events in Japan, with around 100,000 items on offer. The event is held twice a year at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center near Haneda Airport. Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Prada, Gucci and Tiffany’s are just a few of the brands shoppers can expect to find.

As the name suggests, Shicchy’s Charity Fair donates a portion of its profits to charitable causes around Japan. Past causes the fair has supported include the Japan Committee for UNICEF and numerous disaster-relief efforts nationwide.

The Shicchy Shopping Experience

I arrived at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center shortly after the event opened at 10 a.m. Huge rows of people were lined up outside the building, waiting to be allowed inside. After 30 minutes in the queue, it was finally my turn.

The sales floor was organized into sections for clothing, jewelry and watches, accessories and electronics, subdivided by brand. Beyond that, it was a free-for-all. Shoppers jostled to pick through piles of handbags or catch the attention of sales staff. At first, it was a bit overwhelming. However, with a little patience, I was able to get a good look at the items on offer.

Sales staff wore sashes indicating which languages they spoke, in addition to Japanese, including English. All were very helpful when it came to showing me pieces I wanted to take a closer look at. But when I asked where I might find specific products, they politely told me I was on my own!

Louis Vuitton was undoubtedly the star of the event, with smaller selections from brands such as Chanel, Prada, Gucci and others. I was able to buy two vintage Louis Vuitton pouches in the ¥30,000 to ¥50,000 range for my Paris friend. I also found her a stunning silk scarf from Hermès for ¥39,800. Lastly, I treated myself to a cute Michael Kors handbag for a modest ¥16,000.

Was it Worth it?

While a few items at Shicchy’s Charity Fair could be considered cheap, there are definitely some impressive discounts on offer. If you’re drawn to designer brands but find their products are usually just out of reach price-wise, then the Fair is definitely worth a trip.

Things To Know

Shicchy’s Charity Fair takes place twice a year, every June and November, at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center. For details about the next event, you can go to the Shicchy website or follow their Facebook page.

Have you ever been to the Shicchy Charity Fair? Did you find any great deals? Let us know in the comments!

Mizuhiki Art: The Beautiful Knots On Holiday Gifts

Ashley Tsuruoka — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Mizuhiki is the ancient Japanese art of knot-tying. Since the Asuka Period, gifts have been decorated with rice paper cords, which are handcrafted into beautiful, intricate designs. Nowadays, mizuhiki adorns both traditional and contemporary holiday gifts as well as decorations.

The History Of Mizuhiki

The gracefully swirling mizuhiki seen on holiday gifts and New Year’s decorations originated from motoyui—strong, flexible paper cords used to tie up hair into traditional topknots. As the samurai era faded, artisans transformed the skills used to create motoyui into an art form, incorporating vibrant colors and decorative shapes. It has been said that after an elegant red and white design was presented to the Emperor, mizuhiki gained favor in the world of gift-giving.

An abundance of pure water and kozo (the Japanese paper mulberry tree) was found in the town of Iida in Nagano, Japan. Combined with its dry climate, this region fostered a comfortable environment for the production of paper cords. Today, 70% of Japan’s mizuhiki materials originate from Iida, significantly contributing to the preservation of this ancient craft.

The Finishing Touch To Gift Wrapping

In Japan, mizuhiki is more than just a decorative string for wrapping presents. While the big, beautiful ribbons of the West create a sense of joy and excitement, mizuhiki establishes a sense of care and thoughtfulness. It acts as a seal, promising that the gift has remained unopened. It also acts as an amulet, warding off evil spirits. Most importantly, the knot symbolizes the connection between the gift-giver and the receiver, creating a strong bond between them.

Mizuhiki’s precise and artful aesthetic makes it perfect for formal gift exchanges. People often tie it around a gift box or envelope, choosing colors and styles to convey a specific sentiment. Traditional motifs, including cranes and turtles, add layers of meaning. People can also create bows from mizuhiki and wrap them around holiday presents, similar to ribbons.

How To Knot For The Holidays

For centuries, mizuhiki has been a part of New Year celebrations in Japan, symbolizing prayers and good wishes for the new year. Traditional New Year’s decorations are often adorned with mizuhiki designs that delicately curve and twist, forming mesmerizing shapes. Some examples include:

Shimekazari (sacred rice straw decorations)
Kagami mochi (mirror-shaped rice cakes)
Kodamatsu (pine and bamboo decorations)

People also use mizuhiki on pochibukuro, small paper envelopes for gifting money to children on New Year’s Day. You can also spot imaginative and charming knots resembling zodiac animals, such as a horse’s face for the 2026 Year of the Horse.

Modern Knots

In modern-day Japan, you can find all sorts of mizuhiki Christmas and New Year decorations. Paper cords are freely shaped into festive designs like snowflakes, reindeer and evergreen trees. One simple design that can be made at home is a mizuhiki Christmas wreath.

Cords dyed in deep reds, forest greens and shimmering golds can be twisted into a circular arrangement and form the base of a wreath. The wreath can then be embellished with pine and a simple plum or awaji knot.

With cords now available in a myriad of shades, metallic films, glossy sheens or matte finishes, the possibilities are endless. Tokyo Station and department stores around Tokyo have displayed large-scale Christmas trees made from a thousand mizuhiki ornaments.

Auspicious Colors, Designs & Knotting Techniques

Traditionally, people carefully select the color, design and knotting technique of a mizuhiki piece to convey specific meanings. They use an odd number of strands for celebrations, while reserving even numbers for commemorations.

Color combinations such as gold and silver signify joyous occasions, while black and white denote more somber events. People use knotting styles like musubi-kiri (a tough knot that is difficult to untie) for events they hope do not occur multiple times, such as weddings or funerals. They use easily untied knots, such as the chou-musubi (butterfly knot), for events that can happily recur, like academic ceremonies, career milestones and the birth of a baby.

For New Year’s in Japan, one of the common mizuhiki knot styles used is the awaji-musubi. The awaji-musubi is tied tightly and cannot be easily untied, symbolizing everlasting good fortune for the year to come. Celebratory mizuhiki are likely to have three, five or seven strands bundled together. Still, the choice of knot, size, color and strand number may depend on regional traditions and personal preferences.

Today, artisans in Japan continue to create jewelry, accessories and home decor items using mizuhiki, including festive ornaments. Tokyo Mizuhiki is one such shop in Tokyo that sells artful items and hosts workshops teaching knot-tying techniques.

Whether you are decorating your living space, getting presents ready or looking to add a touch of artful elegance to your ensemble, you’ll encounter both traditional and contemporary expressions of mizuhiki art throughout Japan during the holiday season.

Will you be using mizuhiki this holiday season?

Daiso Must-Haves For Christmas

Kerri King — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Daiso is one of the best places in Japan to stock up on Christmas essentials without blowing your budget in December. From festive decor to DIY craft kits and adorable pet outfits, their seasonal range is huge, affordable and honestly way better than you’d expect from a 100-yen store. Here are some of the standout items worth grabbing this year.

Chocolate Icing Decorative Pens

These chocolate icing pens are an absolute must-have if you are planning to decorate gingerbread houses or Christmas cookies this year. They set quickly, taste delicious and Daiso has a huge selection of colours to choose from. Pro tip: Warm the tube in a mug of hot water before opening. It allows the chocolate to flow smoothly, resulting in cleaner designs.

Price: ¥108
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at supermarkets and other 100 yen shops)

Christmas Nail Decorations

Daiso is a go-to spot for DIY nails in Japan and its Christmas lineup this year is genuinely adorable. Tiny nail art parts made from polyresin and zinc alloy (perfect for adding dimension to festive designs) and Christmas-themed gel nail stickers in tartan prints or sparkly white are available this year. It’s an easy, affordable way to add a festive touch without booking a salon appointment.

Price: ¥110
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

LED Decoration Lights

Daiso’s LED light range is one of the best budget-friendly options for festive lighting. There are many options, including warm white strands, multicoloured sets and fun seasonal shapes like stars and snowflakes. All are battery-operated (batteries not included), which makes them easy to place anywhere without worrying about outlets or extension cords.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Pet Christmas Costumes & Toys

If you love dressing up your pets for the holidays, Daiso has some super adorable options this year. The Christmas tree ponchos and red knit-style outfits come in S, M, L and XL, making them suitable for everything from small cats to bigger pups. They also sell festive collars and small toys for both cats and dogs. They’re very cute and perfect for holiday photos.

Price: ¥110-¥550
Store: Daiso

Christmas Gift Bags

Daiso’s gift bag section might actually be unmatched. There are so many options for any gift type, including simple plastic bags, gorgeous fabric styles, foil bags, gusseted options and large paper bags. Designs range from classic Christmas patterns to kid-friendly Disney and Sanrio styles. Our family reuses the fabric gusset bags every year.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Santa Costumes & Accessories

What’s Christmas without a classic Santa outfit? Daiso has a decent range of Christmas outfits this year, including adult-size Santa costumes and Santa dresses, as well as kids’ versions that come as full outfits, dresses or Santa skirts. There’s even a classic Santa beard to complete the look. They’re fun, inexpensive and ideal for holiday photos or at-home festive fun.

Price: ¥110-¥550
Store: Daiso

Wreath-Making Supplies

If you love crafting, Daiso has everything you need to create your own Christmas wreath. You can choose from polystyrene or wooden wreath bases, then customise them with berries, ribbons, mini ornaments and whatever festive touches you like. Most basic supplies are available year-round, with seasonal variations such as pumpkins in autumn or snow-dusted pinecones in winter. With a few affordable pieces, you can put together a wreath that looks completely personalised.

Price: ¥110-¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Christmas Felt Baskets

These small felt baskets are an adorable must-have for festive gift giving. Designs include a gingerbread house, snowman and Santa, each sturdy enough to hold a few small treats or stocking fillers. They also double as cute desk or shelf storage for pens or craft supplies. This year, I filled one with Daiso winter warmers and a few festive goodies to make the perfect holiday gift.

Price: ¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops)

Hata Chanmery (Kids’ Sparkling Drink)

No Japanese Christmas feels complete without chanmery, the kid-friendly sparkling “wine” that appears on shelves every holiday season. Daiso stocks the Hata Chanmery brand, which is not only delicious but far more affordable at ¥108, compared to the ¥400 price tag you’ll often see for other brands in supermarkets. It comes in both white and red varieties (regular and berry), and at 300ml per bottle, it’s the perfect size for Christmas celebrations with kids.

Price: ¥108
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at supermarkets and convenience stores)

Christmas Cushions

Daiso’s cute Christmas cushions are perfect for adding holiday cheer to any room. They’re very soft and affordable, making them perfect for mixing and matching throughout your home. Designs include Santa, gingerbread, Christmas tree and reindeer cushions, along with Daiso’s range of festive cushion covers if you prefer to dress up your existing pillows.

Price: ¥220-¥550
Store: Daiso

Christmas Felt Craft Kits

These small felt craft kits make a great hands-on activity for the holidays, adding a sweet, handmade touch to your Christmas decorations. Designs include polar bears, snowmen, reindeer and Santa. Each set takes around two hours to complete, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon at home.

Price: ¥110
Store: Daiso

Christmas Cards

Daiso’s Christmas card selection is very impressive this year. They have stocked up on everything from simple flat cards to pop-up designs, 3D scenes and glittered or embossed styles. They come individually wrapped with envelopes and many of the pop-up cards look far more expensive than their price tag.

Price: ¥110-¥220
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops, supermarkets, variety stores and stationery stores)

New Year Essentials

After Christmas, preparations for Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year) begin almost immediately and Daiso is one of the easiest places to pick up everything you need. Their seasonal section is packed with shogatsu kazari (traditional New Year decorations) such as wreaths, small decorative arrangements and zodiac ornaments for the Year of the Horse (2026). You’ll also find festive tableware, party supplies and plenty of small items to refresh your home for the holiday. Families can also prepare for otoshidama, the New Year tradition of gifting children money in decorative envelopes. Daiso carries a vast range, from zodiac-themed designs to kid-friendly options. Envelopes are available individually or in multi-packs, making it easy to stock up before the new year.

Price: ¥110-¥330
Store: Daiso (Similar items can be found at other 100 yen shops and department stores)

Other 100 Yen Shop Recommendations

Do you have any Daiso or 100 yen shop must-haves for Christmas? Let us know about them in the comments!

5 Coat Trends To Keep You Chic & Cozy in Tokyo This Winter

Tabitha Wilders — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The city is transforming into a blend of frosty mornings, glowing illuminations and effortlessly stylish outerwear. It’s the season when fashion becomes as functional as it is expressive, and following the right coat trends can define your entire cold-weather look as winter settles over Tokyo.

Known as 冬支度 (fuyu-jitaku), the act of preparing for winter, this time of year invites thoughtful layering, plush textures and refined silhouettes that elevate even the simplest everyday outfit. Think oversized wool coats that sway with every step, padded jackets that feel like wearable duvets and tailored outerwear that adds structure to the season’s cozy chaos.

Whether you’re navigating icy commutes, strolling through festive markets or simply refreshing your winter wardrobe, these are the five coat trends keeping Tokyo stylish and snug this year!

1. Ultra-Long Coats

This season, ultra-long wool and wool-blend coats are making a statement, combining elegance with everyday functionality. Classic neutrals, such as black, gray and beige, dominate, but check and tartan patterns are also trending, reimagined in relaxed, cozy and polished designs that feel modern rather than preppy. For Tokyo women aiming for timeless style with a contemporary twist, these maxi coats are a must-have this winter.

Luxury: Wool Long Coat by Biyoma | ¥132,000

Budget: Chester Long Coat by ap retro | ¥6,990 (28% off ¥9,800)

Savvy Styling Tip

Maximize drama and elegance by wearing your ultra-long coat open over a sleek, monochrome outfit. Think fitted turtlenecks and wide-leg trousers. Add a statement belt to define your waist or create a flowing silhouette. Pointed ankle boots and a structured tote will elevate the look for both office and evening outings. Experiment with textures, like a soft cashmere scarf or suede gloves, to add subtle sophistication.

2. Scarf Coat

Scarf coats, featuring built-in scarves or attached wrap pieces, are having a major moment in Tokyo right now. Japanese fashion is highlighting statement outerwear that blends practicality with refined design, keeping you warm while looking effortlessly chic. From wrap-style scarf coats to sleek options like the Theory Wool Divide Scarf Coat, these pieces offer a modern, elegant silhouette that perfectly fits Tokyo women’s desire for versatile, stylish winter outerwear.

Luxury: Wood Divide Scarf Coat by Theory | ¥89,000

Budget: Wool Short Scarf Coat by Zara | ¥15,990

Savvy Styling Tip

Use the built-in scarf as the centerpiece of your outfit. Wrap it asymmetrically over one shoulder for an avant-garde street look or drape it neatly over a midi skirt and pair it with heeled boots for city elegance. Pair with slim leather pants or tailored culottes to balance volume. A pop of color in shoes or earrings will keep the ensemble modern without feeling heavy.

3. Lightweight Functional Coats with Smart Insulation

Japanese fashion trends are highlighting outerwear that blends practicality with high-performance design, offering warmth without heavy bulk. From sleek, minimalist silhouettes to sporty, technical styles, smart-insulated coats are not just practical. They’re a fashion-forward choice that signals an awareness of both style and sustainable, utilitarian design.

Luxury: Immix Jacket by Oros Japan | ¥28,500 (on sale from ¥68,000)

Budget: Puff Tech Long Coat Relaxed Fit by Uniqlo | ¥10,900

Savvy Styling Tip:

Play up the technical edge by mixing sporty elements with polished pieces. Layer over a cropped hoodie or knit top and wide-leg joggers, but finish with sleek ankle boots or loafers to avoid a purely casual feel. Incorporate metallic or reflective accessories like a belt bag or subtle hardware detailing for a contemporary, urban vibe. This coat is perfect for layering creatively without adding bulk.

4. Boa, Faux Shearling Coats

Cozy, tactile and effortlessly stylish, plush textures like boa and faux shearling coats combine warmth with modern design. From sleek, short styles to long, boa coats, they now offer polished silhouettes that appeal to adults seeking comfort without bulk. Lightweight yet insulating, and with versatile colors and shapes, boa coats are a must-have this season, offering a contemporary twist on winter layering.

Luxury: Faux Shearling Coat by Hyke | ¥68,200

Budget: Form Boa Jacket by KBF | ¥15,400

Savvy Styling Tip

Embrace texture contrast. Pair a plush boa coat with tailored trousers or a satin slip skirt to balance softness with structure. Add tactile accessories, such as a leather crossbody or knit beanie, to complement the coat’s cozy feel. For a chic weekend look, pair it with oversized cropped denim and platform boots, allowing the coat’s tactile texture to become the focal point of your outfit.

5. Leather Bombers

Making a strong mark on Tokyo street style this winter, leather bombers blend retro cool with modern sophistication. Far from a classic staple, leather outerwear, especially relaxed, oversized or mid-length cuts, is one of the hottest trends for 2025. From sleek blousons to reinterpreted bomber silhouettes, leather jackets are being celebrated as versatile, street-style relevant pieces that combine fashion-forward design with urban practicality.

Luxury: Reversible Mouton Coat by Prank Project | ¥165,000

Budget: Faux Leather Harrington Jacket by GU | ¥5,990

Savvy Styling Tip

Lean into the rebellious, urban vibe. Layer your bomber over a printed silk blouse or patterned knit for visual interest, and pair with straight-leg trousers or a pleated skirt to soften the edgy silhouette. Complete the look with chunky sneakers or leather loafers, and add minimal metallic jewelry to keep it sleek and refined. A crossbody bag with hardware details will tie the street-style aesthetic together effortlessly.

Which coat trends are calling your name this season in Tokyo? Are you drawn to bold textures, classic neutrals or modern silhouettes? Tell us how you’ll be layering up and putting your own twist on these city-ready looks in the comments below!

The Best Christmas Dining Offers in Tokyo For The 2025 Holiday Season

The Savvy Team — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

The holiday season is in full swing, and Tokyo is sparkling everywhere you look. Streets, shops and cafes are adorned with illuminations and Christmas trees, transforming the city into a magical winter wonderland just in time for the holidays. Christmas will be here before you know it, so if you’re spending the season in Tokyo, here are our top recommendations for an unforgettable 2025 Christmas dining experience with family, friends or that special someone.

1. Grand Hyatt Tokyo

Every year, this hotel transforms into an edible Advent calendar! They have a lobby that glows with its annual Christmas decorations, holiday hampers, afternoon tea, a holiday brunch and buffet, along with all eight of its restaurants rolling out limited holiday menus that truly feel festive. After dinner, head over to Maduro or The Oak Door for one of their festive cocktails that are all photogenic and all dangerously drinkable.

Prices: Dinner ¥19,000–¥41,800; Cocktails ¥2,200-¥4,700
Address: 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

2. ANA InterContinental Tokyo

Go all-out for the holidays with one of many festive dining options in every corner of this hotel. Enjoy Christmas-themed afternoon teas filled with seasonal sweets and savory bites, lavish holiday buffets at Cascade Cafe, and elegant multi-course dinners ranging from traditional kaiseki at Unkai to sky-high teppanyaki at Akasaka. The Steakhouse serves classic Christmas lunches and dinners, while Karin Chinese Restaurant offers a special holiday course for something a little different. MIXX Bar swaps in a trio of decadent fig cocktails—the Noir de Fig, a velvety Fig Old Fashioned and the Imperial Fig Martini.

Prices: Various prices for lunch and dinner; Cocktails ¥3,000–¥3,500
Address: 1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

3. Andaz Tokyo

Enjoy an indulgent lineup of seasonal dining, from The Tavern’s elegant six-course festive dinner served high above the city to its relaxed Apéritif & Sharing Steak Set and a limited-edition afternoon tea celebrating the rich aromas of chocolate, berries and warming spices. At the Sushi, an intimate eight-seat counter, a Christmas-only Edomae gala dinner showcases premium seasonal seafood. At the same time, BeBu brings back its wildly popular Fried Chicken Box to go for cozy holiday gatherings at home. And to finish the season in true Andaz style, the Rooftop Bar pours limited-edition Festive Tea Cocktails inspired by winter spices and Stollen.

Prices: Various prices for each offering; Cocktails ¥1,870 (only ¥990 during Happy Hour)
Address: 1‑23‑4 Toranomon Hills, Minato‑ku (Google Map Link)

4. The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo

This hotel goes full storybook this year with its “Dear You” Christmas Collection. Three restaurants, three cuisines and one theme: heartfelt, unforgettable holiday dining. At Melodia, the Italian course unfolds with lobster and carpaccio, buttery flounder and wagyu wrapped in flaky pastry before a multi-textured chocolate finale. China Shadow elevates the evening with lavish dim sum-style starters, kiln-roasted Peking duck, lobster in kataifi and jade-green fried rice crowned with salmon roe. For the showstoppers, Kazane Teppanyaki fires up Ise lobster and a duet of premium Japanese beef right on the teppan.

Prices: Dinner ¥15,400–¥24,200
Address: Shinagawa East One Tower 26–32F, 2-16-1 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

5. Palace Hotel Tokyo

Choose your own adventure from six restaurants serving Christmas dinner—from Ducasse’s Esterre to teppanyaki GO, Grand Kitchen, Wadakura, Amber Palace and the skyline-framed Lounge Bar Privé—all unveiling festive menus built around peak-season seafood, charcoal-grilled Wagyu, Shanghai crab, teppan-seared lobster and holiday desserts. Whether you’re splurging on Esterre’s caviar-bright bisque and truffle-kissed Wagyu, settling into GO’s sizzle of Matsusaka beef or lingering over Grand Kitchen’s Vacherin and perfectly roasted Japanese tenderloin, every course feels crafted for a slow, joy-filled evening. End the night with a strawberry cocktail and city views at Privé!

Prices: ¥19,000–¥55,000; Cocktails ¥2,800–¥3,800
Address: 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

6. The Peninsula Tokyo

Expect to see pure seasonal magic from Peter’s wagyu and sky-high palace views to Hei Fung Terrace’s traditional Cantonese cuisine. Beyond the polished silver service, the hotel’s festivities unfold everywhere: a heart-melting Toy Hospital in The Lobby where “Toy Doctors” restore beloved childhood treasures, a cozy Christmas Market along Naka Dori for postcards and artisanal treats, and a charity-minded Festive Afternoon Tea scored by live music. And to top it all off, don’t miss the seasonal stars behind the bar: the Setouchi EMT and the Pen Negroni, two festive cocktails made to sip and be jolly.

Prices: Various prices for lunch and dinner; Cocktails ¥3,200
Address: 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

7. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo

Christmas dinner at the Four Seasons is a seven-course French dream in a Paris-styled bistro—think truffled Soufflé Suisse, caviar-topped lobster ravioli and a glossy Hokkaido beef Wellington that feels straight out of a holiday movie. Warm lighting and that signature Four Seasons hush make everything feel cinematic. Cap the night at The Bar with their spiced hot chocolate (rum, cinnamon, star anise) or drop by for the festive cocktail lineup—mulled wine, eggnog and a gingerbread martini. On December 25, they’ll have a festive blend of Sakura gin, elderflower, berries and citrus, too.

Prices: Dinner ¥35,000; Cocktails ¥3,000 approx.
Address: 1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

8. Janu Tokyo

At Janu Tokyo, the festive season unfolds in warm, amber tones, with elegant dining experiences available throughout the hotel. Hu Jing elevates the holidays with an eight-course Chinese dinner with Peking duck, hairy crab tomalley soup and fresh seafood paired with free-flow Champagne, while Janu Mercato serves a vibrant six-course Italian feast of Omi duck tagliatelle, Japanese beef, scallops, lobster and a snowy cassata finale. At Janu Grill, Christmas brings a multi-course menu infused with golden-hued spirits, featuring dishes such as Matsunaga beef fillet with Madeira and tableside Amaretto-flambéed tarte tatin. To finish the night, Janu Bar pours three limited seasonal pear cocktails.

Prices: Various prices for each offering; Cocktails ¥2,800–¥3,200
Address: 1-2-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

9. Hotel Toranomon Hills

Le Pristine Tokyo at Hotel Toranomon Hills offers a full festive lineup throughout December, with chef-crafted courses to make every moment memorable. Guests can enjoy a festive dinner featuring botan shrimp with avocado and caviar, smoked lobster ravioli, Japanese Akaushi Beef “Rossini” with truffle croquettes and winter vegetables, and a tricolor Amaou strawberry dessert, as well as a festive afternoon tea and the Tokyo-exclusive Dark Chocolate Panettone. The Christmas Dinner six-course menu, available only on December 24 and 25, is the season’s highlight, offering an indulgent feast with the finest ingredients presented with the refined elegance of Sergio Herman’s “New Italian” style.

Prices: Various prices for lunch and dinner; Christmas Dinner ¥25,300
Address: 1-23-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

10. Park Hyatt Tokyo

The Park Hyatt Tokyo, which is undergoing major renovations, is set to reopen on December 9, just in time for the Christmas season. For Japanese elegance, Kozue offers a Christmas kaiseki with snow crab and winter yellowtail, while Girandole by Alain Ducasse presents a signature festive course of beets, black truffle, and wagyu beef with sommelier-selected wines.

Prices: Dinner ¥24,200-¥25,300
Address: 3-7-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

Non-Hotel Christmas Offers Around Tokyo

Dining

Kawara (Shinjuku): A special ¥5,000 Christmas course featuring misuji steak, creamy tomato pasta and a cute festive dessert.
Accueil (Ebisu/Daikanyama): Casual, cafe-style Christmas dinner option with seasonal three-course “Xmas dinner” plans from ¥5,500 to ¥7,150.
Sarabeth’s Tokyo (Shinjuku / Shinagawa): Very approachable Western-style set dinners and special Noël set around ¥7,000 for special holiday course offerings.
Ivy Place (Daikanyama): A festive four-course Christmas dinner featuring house-smoked duck, yuba-wrapped snapper and shrimp, F1 roast beef and a praline–white chocolate mousse for ¥9,800.
Two Rooms Grill & Bar (Aoyama): Mark the season with special Christmas lunch and dinner courses, crafted with seasonal ingredients, available for ¥7,500 and ¥19,500, respectively.
Tokyo Node Dining (Toranomon): Early Christmas Course ¥15,800; Christmas Dinner Course ¥18,500 for seasonal French-Japanese tasting menus in a modern setting.
BLT Steak (Ginza): A full course ¥19,800 featuring caviar, grilled lobster and a showstopping 700g dry-aged T-bone. The same course with all you can drink with wine, beer and highball is ¥24,800.
Fish Bank Tokyo (Shiodome): Seafood-forward Christmas course; menus vary but expect roughly ¥22,000–¥36,000 depending on the course/wine pairings.

Cocktails

BAR S (Ginza): Winter Cocktail Fair featuring festive drinks like “Rossini,” “Strawberry Gimlet,” and “Sweet Teddy.”
Tokyo Confidential (Azabujuban): Enjoy four festive signature drinks, Gingerbread Old Fashioned, Kentucky Coffee, Cookies and Cream and Mulled Wine, cozy up with house-party vibes and Tokyo Tower views.
Tokyo Disneysea (Urayasu): Sip your way in between rides and parades with limited-time festive drinks like a cozy hot cacao–coffee cocktail, a strawberry beer and a sparkling fruit wine.

Happy feasting, happy frosting and happy sipping! Christmas in Tokyo 2025 is officially served.

Japanese Superfoods: Wasabi

Hilary Keyes — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Wasabi, along with soy sauce, is known internationally as the go-to condiment for sushi and sashimi. Some people love it, some people hate it, some people have never actually had the “real” stuff, but it’s another of Japan’s great superfoods.

What Is Wasabi?

わさび or 山葵 (wasabi) is Japanese horseradish, and part of the mustard family. Native to Japan, it can also be found in the Korean Peninsula, Sakhalin and the eastern side of Russia. It grows naturally along stream beds, especially in mountain river valleys across Japan.

Wasabi has been eaten in Japan since the Nara/Heian eras. However, it was then consumed as part of a cold soup. In the Edo era, it was used as a garnish with sashimi, soba and pickled vegetables. It later became the standard garnish for sushi.

The rhizomes (rootstalks) or the main body of the wasabi are ground into a paste and used as a condiment. While similar to hot mustard and horseradish, it has a subtle, distinct flavor when grated that many find addictive. It’s traditionally grated using coarse sharkskin graters but metal or plastic graters are also used nowadays.

Real vs Fake Wasabi

While primarily found in the Izu Peninsula of Shizuoka Prefecture, wasabi plants are also farmed in Nagano, Iwate and Shimane Prefectures. It’s impossible to grow them in a commercial capacity, which means that the real stuff is expensive. A single rhizome to grate at home can run anywhere from ¥800 to ¥2,500.

The plants are also very fussy as they are:

Intolerant of direct sunlight
Require temperatures between eight and 20 degrees Celsius (46 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit)
Prefer high humidity during their summer growing seasons

Fresh paste loses its flavor quickly if left exposed to the air. It therefore must be grated and used as soon as possible. That’s why it’s grated fresh on the spot in high-end restaurants, and often sandwiched between the fish and rice in sushi restaurants.

So What’s The Fake Stuff Made Of?

It’s no secret that all wasabi isn’t created equal. As the condiment has gained popularity over time, commercial options have been developed to meet demand.

Wasabi sold in Japan comes in bottles and tubes, and is usually made from dried wasabi powder. Overseas, most pastes are made from other ingredients such as horseradish, mustard and may not even contain any wasabi whatsoever. Often, green food coloring or spinach powder is added to mimic the appearance of fresh wasabi.

Health Benefits

Real wasabi is a superfood in that it contains isothiocyanates, just like cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. It’s packed with:

Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C
Folate
Calcium
Iron
Manganese
Magnesium
Zinc
Phosphorus
Potassium

Other studies show it to have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, and may also promote fat loss. It may also help lower cholesterol, reduce blood clot formation (which reduces the risk of stroke and cardiac arrest) and also help lower blood pressure.

As it contains sinigrin, a glucosinolate that helps clear sinus congestion and thin mucus, it can be particularly helpful during cold and flu season too!

Why It Works So Well With Raw Fish

Part of the reason why wasabi is so intricately linked to raw fish is that it’s considered an antidote for food poisoning. It contains allyl isothiocyanate, which has been proven to inhibit the growth of E. coli, Salmonella sp, H. pylori and Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria that cause food poisoning and ulcers, which can lead to stomach cancer, and may also help to prevent tooth decay as a result.

Real wasabi is also an antiparasitic; the isothiocyanates released when wasabi is ground are effective against Anisakiasis, a parasitic disease caused by worms found in cod, salmon and squid.

How To Enjoy It

You can find spicy snacks all across Japan.

Wasabi is not something you should eat in large amounts. The sharp, pungent spice of it hits the nose and sinuses in such a way that excessive consumption can lead to headaches in some people. Small amounts of the paste can be added directly to raw fish, used in marinades, added to sauces for steaks or used as a spicy seasoning on snacks.

Teas are also available in areas where wasabi is produced; some are blended with green tea.

Fresh wasabi leaves are also spicy and are commonly added to rice balls and salads, but can cause diarrhea. The tea isn’t spicy at all, but has a mellow yet flavorful taste that some say is better than that of green tea alone.

If you haven’t tried its other forms, you may want to consider adding it to your diet.