In Japan, March and April are when white and pink cherry blossom trees burst into full bloom. From making seasonal sweets to packing sakura-themed bento boxes, there are lots of ways to embrace early spring. If you’re looking to experience cherry blossom season in a refined setting, look no further than a sakura-themed afternoon tea. With sweet and savory dishes infused with cherry blossom flavors, check out our picks for sakura afternoon tea in Tokyo. 

How are you planning to celebrate the start of spring by attending a sakura afternoon tea in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re a tropical girl like me, hitting the slopes can seem terrifying at first. Fear not! Japan is legendary in ski circles because of Japow (Japanese powder snow). These conditions make gliding on the slopes feel so effortless, like floating on a cloud. Not to mention, Japan’s snow resorts are very affordable compared to other places in the world. Here’s what you need to know about skiing in Japan, from where to go, how much it costs and what to expect

Where to Ski in Japan

If you’re a total novice when it comes to winter sports in Japan, choose ski resorts with lots of green/beginner slopes. These are gentle and wide, making it less likely that you’ll bump into other learners. Many also feature “magic carpets” (conveyor belts), which make going up and down the course a breeze. There are also nets on the edges to catch you if you run off course.

Here are some well-known Japanese ski resorts that are great for newbies.

• Tambara Ski Park (Gunma)
• Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort (Nagano)
• Meiho Ski Resort (Gifu)
• Iwappara Snow Resort (Niigata)
• Kuju Shinrin Koen Ski Resort (Oita)
• Grandeco Snow Resort (Fukushima)
• Snow Park Yeti (Shizuoka)

How Much Does Skiing in Japan Cost?

If you do your research, winter sports don’t have to cost a fortune. Getting to the ski resort, however, can be a major deal-breaker. If you have to fly there, the cost is going to rack up. Consider Tambara in Gunma for a quick and easy day trip. Karuizawa Prince Hotel is also within walking distance of the shinkansen (bullet train) station. 

Lift tickets can run from ¥4,000 and up. Renting ski or snowboard equipment can cost ¥ 4,000 or more. To rent a full ski suit, set aside at least ¥3,000. Sign up for a package deal to save that precious yen: transport to the resort, ski lift ticket and gear rental in one.

Don’t forget to include locker and meal fees (you’re likely to be ravenous after a couple of hours sliding in the snow). 

Top tip: Learn from the pros at an accredited ski school. If your Japanese isn’t fabulous, sign up for classes that offer multilingual instruction. Classes can be one-on-one or in small groups, so choose according to your needs or budget. 

What Should I Wear?

Snow resorts are chilly, so bundle up! The key is to dress in stretchy, non-bulky layers. Your base layer should be something quick-dry and warm, like a heat-tech/wool thermal top and bottom. The second layer can be a high-neck midweight fleece or sweatshirt. Your third layer should be a windproof and waterproof ski jacket and ski bottoms to keep the snow out. To keep your feet warm, ski socks or knee-high winter socks are essential. 

Since COVID-19, you can no longer rent small items that come into close contact with your face and hands. Bring ski gloves, ski goggles and a beanie to keep your head toasty. A helmet is nice if you want to be extra safe. 

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and an SPF lip balm. Kairo (heat packs) that you can stick on your clothes or slip into a pocket can also keep you cozy on the slopes. 

Top tip: Bring a plastic bag for wet clothes and a small towel to dry off. Keep your lift ticket, some cash and mini tissues on hand. Stash your street clothes, shoes (non-slip soles are best) and everything else in the locker and you’re good to go!

Japanese Ski-related Vocabulary

If you’re a winter sports rookie like me, you’ll need to understand a couple of Japanese terms to avoid confusion on the slopes. Here’s a table of some common lingo you’re bound to hear at any ski resort in Japan.

What to Expect

If you’re good at skateboarding, paddleboarding or surfing, then balance is probably your thing. You may be able to shred that slope in no time. For the rest of us non-sporty peeps, please manage your expectations. 

You may fall on your butt or eject from your ski bindings several times. You may feel like an idiot if kids are getting it before you. Don’t stress! Go with the flow. Take a break. Watch the snow sparkle under the sunlight. Breathe in that clean mountain air. Eat something and get back out there! 

And if you’re really not getting it, there’s no shame in throwing in the towel. Try something less stressful. Make a snowman. Go snowshoeing. Relish the Japanese après-ski ritual of soaking those tired limbs in an onsen (hot spring). 

Need some more inspo? Read Maxine Cheyney’s personal essay about shreddin’ the gnar: a beginner’s snowboarding experience.

Dear reader, have you gone skiing in Japan? How was it? We want to hear all about it in the comments!

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

© Photo by Rika Hoffman

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

© Photo by Rika Hoffman

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

© Photo by Rika Hoffman

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. 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.
2. Submerge the kumquats in a pot of water (they should be just covered) and boil for 3-4 minutes. 
3. Drain the kumquats and allow them to cool. 
4. Taking each kumquat one by one, gently remove the seeds by inserting a wooden skewer or chopsticks into the vertical cuts you made earlier. 
5. Combine 400 milliliters of water and 250 grams of sugar in a pot and bring to a boil.
6. Add the kumquats. They should all fit in an even layer at the bottom of the pot.
7. Bring the pot of kumquats and syrup back up to a boil over medium heat. 
8. 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.
9. Once the kumquats have softened and the syrup has thickened, turn off the heat and allow them to cool.
10. 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

© Photo by Rika Hoffman

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

As the year winds down, many people in Japan are busy with bonenkai (end-of-the-year parties); sending out nengajo (Japanese New Year postcards); preparing for the big clean (osouji) and snatching up leftover fukubukuro (lucky bags). While the New Year holidays may seem like an adult affair, there are plenty of traditional New Year games in Japan that families can enjoy together.

Karuta

© Photo by iStock: gyro

As one of the most iconic traditional New Year games, karuta traces its long history to kai-awase, a poetry-matching game played by Heian-period nobility using shells, as well as to European-style playing cards introduced to Japan in the 16th century. The primary goal of karuta is to correctly recognize and grab the appropriate matching card before your opponent does.

The most popular game is Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, which showcases 100 classic Japanese poems. For more details on how to play karuta, check out this beginner’s primer. A game for all ages, karuta is an excellent game to hone reflexes, reading and listening skills all in one!

Kendama

© Photo by iStock: grinvalds

One game that has experienced a resurgence in popularity in Japan and worldwide is kendama. Typically made of wood, this ball-and-cup type toy consists of a ken (meaning sword or the handle), dama (ball) and a length of string. Kendama’s appeal lies in its simple construction and immense versatility. Thousands of tricks can be performed with experts mastering around 30,000 different combinations!

You simply swing the ball and catch it between the three different “cups” along the handle. You can also spike it on the end. It’s a great game for improving hand-eye coordination and getting some exercise for energetic little ones.

Fukuwarai

© Photo by iStock: kohei_hara

Similar to the American game, Pin the Tail on the Donkey, fukuwarai dates back to the Edo period. It is equally fun and simple. First, players put on blindfolds. Then they try to place facial feature cutouts—eyes, nose, mouth, eyebrows and more—onto a blank face laid out on a table. Traditional face templates include okame, a woman with enormous cheeks believed to bring good luck, and hyottoko, a man with a comically spout-shaped mouth.

This traditional New Year game is typically played in teams. Teammates help by shouting out directions, but they can also mislead their teammates to create hilarious faces. Fukuwarai translates to “lucky laugh” since laughter is supposed to bring you good fortune. Secure some good luck during the holidays as you laugh yourselves into next year!

Hanetsuki

© Photo by iStock: Yoshisako Tsubasa

Resembling badminton without a net, hanetsuki is played with one or two players. You’ll need a wooden paddle called a hagoita and a shuttlecock-like object known as a hane. Hanetsuki has its origins in a Shinto ritual that dates back to the Nara period. It was once believed to be an activity that blessed girls with good health.

In one version of the game, a player tries to keep the hane in the air as long as possible. Another feature is a match between two players, with rules similar to those of badminton. Although the game has declined in popularity, hagoita are still sold around the New Year as collectibles. Grab a pair and go head-to-head this holiday season.

Ohajiki

© Photo by iStock: hanapon1002

Similar to marbles, ohajiki are typically colorful pieces of china, glass or plastic that have been flattened into round discs. Games using ohajiki were traditionally popular among girls during the Edo period as a means of passing the time.

Two players place their ohajiki on the floor in front of them and take turns flipping their pieces. If a player lands their piece on their opponent’s, they get to keep it and win a point. The game continues until all the pieces are collected and the player with the most pieces wins.

Takoage

© Photo by iStock: TAGSTOCK1

As with many traditional New Year games covered in this article, takoage (kite flying) was initially done by elite classes. As well as for religious purposes. However, its popularity grew among ordinary people around the 1600s. As a result, the shogunate issued a ban on kite flying. He feared they would hit the upper class, making trips to the capital. The activity was permitted only on New Year’s Day. As there would be little travel to and from Edo (Tokyo) during the holidays.

Takoage was believed to promote good health through physical activity. It also had the perceived benefit of catching sunlight on your face while looking up at the sky. Parents with newborn boys often flew kites during the holiday as a ritual for ensuring their good health too. These days, kites are readily available in all shapes, sizes and designs. Find your own and take to the skies this New Year!

Origami

© Photo by iStock: recep-bg

The Japanese art of paper folding is not typically associated with the Japanese New Year. However, its thematic versatility means that there are plenty of holiday-related projects for the family to embark on. Try making these New Year items with origami:

• Kadomatsu: One of the most visible examples of New Year decor.
• The fifth creature of the Chinese zodiac: For the upcoming year of the Dragon
• Ema (thick pine cards for writing wishes at shrines): decorate the home with hopes for the coming year.

Are there any traditional New Year games or activities that you enjoy doing with your little ones? Please leave us some suggestions in the comments below!

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

© Photo by iStock: winhorse

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

© Photo by Pixta: Fast&Slow

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

© Photo by Pixta: yamasan

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

© Photo by Pixta: naomono

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

Food 

• Kaldi Coffee Farm
• Kinokuniya
• Tully’s Coffee
• Starbucks Japan
• Lupicia
• UCC

Home Goods

• Hario
• Bruno
• Salut

Clothes (kids and adults)

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

Accessories

• Anemone 
• Luna Earth

Pregnancy & Baby Goods

• Akachan Honpo
• Babies R Us

Combini

• Family Mart
• 7/11

Department Stores

• Mitsukoshi
• Takashimaya
• Seibu
• Hankyu 
• Daimaru

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

Money can be tight after the holiday season. When the days of fun and feasting have faded, January often brings a period of reflection and saving for the new year ahead. Happily, your food budget doesn’t have to break the bank with expensive imports (looking at you, pricey Chilean blueberries!). Alongside leaner meat and fish choices that people often switch to as they double down on New Year’s resolutions, why not fill your plate with affordable, healthy seasonal winter vegetables from Japan?

Winter vegetables may receive a bad rap for their limited variety. Indeed, although I am a big fan of root vegetables, I did tire of throwing them in the oven as a wintery side dish in Canada. However, Japan’s cold-weather specialties have quite a varied taste profile, ranging from earthy and deep to peppery and sharp. Domestically grown, full of vitamins and minerals, and plenty of “Japan-only” appeal: dig into our list below to discover five stars of fuyu (winter)!

1. Burdock Root

© Photo by iStock: sirichai_asawalapsakul

Gobo (burdock root) is a slender root vegetable that resembles a pale white tree root and grows year-round, with peak harvests in fall and winter. Burdock root is high in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it often eaten to aid digestion or ground into powder and sold as a dietary supplement.

When cooking with burdock, it’s best not to peel the skin, as that is where the most nutrients are located. However, giving the root a good scrub and soaking it in cold water will help remove dirt and reduce its bitter taste. A popular recipe with burdock root is kinpira gobo, or sliced gobo with carrots and sesame, which is a staple for home cooks across Japan. Meanwhile, Hakata, Fukuoka Prefecture’s specialty, is gobo tempura-topped udon noodles, which attract long lines of hungry tourists.

2. Napa or Chinese Cabbage

© Photo by iStock: wahid hasyim asyari

Hakusai (Napa or Chinese Cabbage), meaning “white vegetable”, is the most crucial leafy green in Japanese winter cuisine. This cabbage is widely available across Japan during the winter season, where you will often see the white-stemmed, crinkly-leafed veggie piled high at the supermarket. Napa cabbage is easy to grow and can withstand temperatures as low as zero degrees Celsius as a cold-weather crop.

Napa cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and works well in steamed and stewed dishes such as hot pot and cabbage rolls. It also serves as the main ingredient in the kimchi sold in Japan. Napa cabbage is also low in calories, high in water content, and loaded with vitamins and antioxidants to help ward off the various colds and viruses that may come your way during the winter season.

3. Japanese Radish

© Photo by iStock: karimitsu

No vegetable is more iconic in Japan than daikon (Japanese radish). Daikon, or literally “big root,” is commonly bright white in color and notable for its size, especially compared to small red garden radishes. There are several varieties of Japanese radish, but the largest one is Kagoshima prefecture’s Sakurajima shimadekon (island daikon in dialect), which holds a Guinness World Record for being the biggest radish in the world.

Japanese radishes have a milder taste that is less sharp and peppery than that of other radish varieties. In Japanese cuisine, people often grate daikon and serve it with dipping sauces or slice it thinly for fresh salads. During colder weather, they boil it in soy sauce or add it to stews and hot pots to bring out its natural sweetness.

4. Japanese Mustard Green

© Photo by iStock: nortongo

Mizuna (Japanese mustard greens) are winter leafy greens that grow in large white bulbs from October to March. They are prolific plants that grow quickly and are productive, with a single bulb capable of producing up to 600 leaves. Mizuna is also known as kyona because it was historically cultivated in the Kyoto region and is considered one of the few native vegetables of Japan.

Mizuna has a peppery and mildly bitter flavor. They are commonly grown for salad mixes and can be easily paired with other greens. These mustard greens can also be sautéed in stir-fries, where they will wilt and shrink like spinach. Additionally, mizuna is a popular last-minute addition to stews and hot pots, such as nabe yaki udon (hot pot udon noodles).

5. Enoki Mushrooms 

© Photo by iStock: 4nadia

Enokitake (enoki mushrooms) are white, thin, tendril-like mushrooms that naturally grow on tree logs from late fall to early spring. The roots of the mushroom are grown interconnected and produce small bundles, which are then cut and sold to supermarkets. When storing them at home, remove them from any plastic packaging and place them in the crisper to avoid spoilage. 

Enoki mushrooms have an earthy and slightly nutty flavor that will add depth to your cooking. Like other mushrooms in Japan, enoki is used in a variety of dishes, ranging from soups and stews to stir-fries. They are even popular deep-fried as an appetizer or snack while drinking. For an easy meal, try making takikomi gohan (Japanese mixed rice), where you cook enoki mushrooms with rice in the rice cooker.

So, get your nabe (hot pots) bubbling and try out these five winter vegetables in Japan! And, if you want them all to share the same hot pot, why not give it a go? Just make sure only to add your mizuna at the very last minute to preserve its delicate flavor and texture.

Dear Hilary—What’s Wrong With A Traditional New Year’s?

Like many people who come to Japan, I came for the culture. At first it was anime and manga, but after I got here I became completely obsessed with Japanese traditions—especially holidays. I celebrate everything I can, and New Year’s is no exception. I even took classes on different subjects, so I wouldn’t be disrespectful. In fact, my former Japanese boyfriend and I used to attend traditional events together.

However, early this year I started dating someone new (he’s Japanese too), and about a week ago when I mentioned that I was excited to make my own osechi again. He gave me this really rude look and asked why I bothered since I’m foreign. He said that it was “weird” to want to make osechi or to go to a shrine and that I should be drinking champagne and having a “real party like normal people” do. I laughed it off, but now I feel really awkward about discussing anything related to end-of-year plans with him.

He’s already started talking about what we’re doing for Christmas, which, oddly enough, in his mind is a totally Japanese-style date, but now I’m not so sure I want to do that, or anything with him, to be honest. I’ve been using work as an excuse not to see him at the moment because I really can’t figure out what his issue is. What do you think?

—Akeome

Dear Akeome,

Wow! Before I get into your message, I just want to say how impressed I am that you make your own osechi (traditional Japanese New Year’s foods). I’ve only ever attempted it once but I’m pretty sure toshi-koshi (New Year’s Eve) soba is my limit.

You seem to disagree with what your boyfriend is saying, which is entirely understandable. I’m curious as to why he feels it’s so strange for you to celebrate a traditional Japanese New Year’s, though. The whole “why bother since you’re foreign” in particular stands out to me.

First things first: have you taken part in, celebrated or otherwise shown an understanding of or appreciation for Japanese traditions thus far in your relationship? Did he make any comments, positive or negative, about that? Did he join in or did he refuse to take part?

If so, and the comments were positive and/or he took part as well, then it could be that he has a problem with New Year’s specifically. It’s the end of the year, people are stressed out at work, there can be a lot of pressure to make things a certain way for the family’s sake, and so on. It can also be a depressing or difficult time of year. For example, an acquaintance of mine lost several family members around the New Year, and as such doesn’t celebrate it in the traditional fashion. Another friend is estranged from their family and prefers to go out to parties instead.

It could also just be osechi itself that is the issue.

I know at least four Japanese people that absolutely hate the stuff and would rather eat anything else. Or your boyfriend might simply prefer a Western-style New Year’s bash to a Japanese one and be struggling to explain this sentiment to you.

On the other hand, if your boyfriend is chronically negative or put-off by your appreciation of Japanese culture, his comment could be symptomatic of a different problem with your relationship. If he, for example, takes issue with you wearing a yukata/kimono, visiting temples and shrines, or even something as small as using chopsticks, then he might be gatekeeping his culture or trying to keep you foreign for his own purposes.

Does he mock or put down Japanese culture? Or is your appreciation of Japanese culture a common complaint of his? I might start to question why he’s dating you if that’s the case. He may not be dating you for you so much as for the fact that you’re not Japanese.

It’s not that uncommon for some Japanese men (across all age groups) to have a foreign fetish.

As it were, and to use dating someone non-Japanese to make themselves feel better, or even elevate their social or career status. Some do as it gives them the appearance of being worldly or even capable of speaking another language, when in fact they cannot.

They see dating a foreigner as a stepping stone to better things, be that:

• Hafu-children, who are often sterotyped to have an envious multicultral look and abliity to speak multiple langauges
• An “automatic” visa enabling them to live overseas
• “Free” accommodations if they travel to their partner’s home country

Basically dating a foreigner is a relationship “full of perks” for them.

While they tend to come in a variety of types, the overall trend among this kind of man is a loathing or self-deprecating view of their own culture as being somehow “less than” that of Western culture. That manifests in certain expectations of non-Japanese people–namely, that they don’t take part in Japanese traditions. Some might even prefer their non-Japanese partners to actively participate in mocking those traditions alongside them.

“Sometimes Japanese guys who are obsessed with foreigners, especially white ones, have hang-ups about being Japanese. They want to be seen as this cool, exotic Japanese, but global kind of guy. But if their partner knows more about their culture than they do, they start feeling insecure about themselves. They realize they aren’t special and probably not what their partner is looking for because they don’t know their own culture, and act defensively. They’re willing to bully their partner away from Japanese culture in order to maintain that foreignness they covet.” (Japanese man, 42).

Uno Reverse It!

While not exactly the nicest of routes to take, if your boyfriend thinks it’s “weird” for you to have a Japanese-style New Year’s, then I might tell him that you would prefer to celebrate Christmas “like a foreigner”. That means no KFC, no strawberry shortcake and no sexy Santa costumes that seem to form the basis of many Japanese Christmas fantasies.

Having a clear discussion about why he feels that way about your making osechi should settle the matter clearly. He either dislikes Japanese New Year’s for his own reasons or, if he’s chronically against your taking part in Japanese culture, you and he simply have values that don’t match up.

If that turns out to be the case, then perhaps you should reconsider the relationship as you obviously have invested time, energy and money into studying them and don’t want to give that up. Best of luck.

Got a question you’d like to ask Hilary? Email it to askhilary@savvytokyo.com with the subject “Ask Hilary.”

Another year has flown by, and if you live in Japan, you’ll probably encounter the two largest annual events overlapping—Christmas and New Year—each celebrated very differently depending on the family. As you navigate these unique customs, you’ll quickly notice how central Japanese New Year’s traditions are to the season. Below is the step-by-step process of how and why the Japanese celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of a new one.

Nenmatsu-nenshi, Toshikoshi & Shinnen

© Photo by iStock: gyro

What term refers to what? We get you. It can get confusing. Before we delve into the actual traditions, let’s first define the terminology.

• 年末年始 (nenmatsu-nenshi; “year-end, year-beginning”): Describes the time of year when we are busy and stressed, yet looking forward to spending time with our loved ones. In terms of dates, it actually covers the very last days of the current year and the first days of the new one.
• 年越し (toshikoshi; “passing the year”): Refers to the events and customs that take place at the end of year.
• 新年 (shinnen; “new year”): Refers to all festivities taking place before heading back to work on Jan. 4.

The official nenmatsu-nenshi break in Japan for most people is between Dec. 29 and Jan. 3. Yes, that’s the most blessed time of the year!

Japanese New Year’s Eve Traditions

Below are some of the most unique and traditionally celebrated New Year’s events in Japan. Whether in Akita or Shimane prefectures, celebrating the holidays here will make you go through at least half of these traditions in one way or another.

1. Nengajo (年賀状)

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Starting as early as the beginning of December, Japanese people receive their New Year’s seasonal greeting postcards even before the Christmas trees are up. The nengajo is a special postcard used only for New Year’s greetings. As long as you drop them off at your local post office by December 25 (or sometimes even a few days later is fine), they will arrive on January 1, or at the latest, by January 3.

Nengajo are somewhat equivalent to Christmas cards in the West. They’re a way to keep connected to friends, relatives, colleagues and acquaintances at least once a year. The cards also have a set of numbers at the bottom of the card called nengajo tosen that may win you a prize or some cash. The winning numbers are announced on the Japanese Postal website in mid-January, so keep an eye out!

As physical nengajo continue to decline—Japan Post reported a 34% drop in New Year’s Day deliveries in 2025—more people now send digital versions instead. Younger generations especially prefer quick greetings through messaging apps or social media, and Japan Post has responded by launching Smart Nenga, a fully digital service that lets users create and send animated or personalized New Year cards directly through LINE.

2. Hagoita Decorations (羽子板)

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Hagoita is a rectangular wooden paddle originally used to play hanetsuki, a traditional Japanese game similar to badminton. Today, people display them as New Year’s decorations to drive away evil spirits—just as you’d hit a badminton feather, you symbolically hit the bad luck away.

The paddles are stunningly beautiful, decorated with 3D models made of silk, wood and washi (Japanese paper). They often represent faces from traditional theater plays, geisha, kabuki actors or sumo wrestlers. You can purchase a set for yourself at most temples around mid-December. If you’re not sure where to go, the famous Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa sells them annually from December 17 to 19.

3. Oosoji (大掃除)

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Oosoji is Japan’s equivalent of “Spring Cleaning.” On the last weekend of the year, the whole family pitches in to clean the house (especially the windows) so they can start the new year fresh and clean.

Check out this article if you want to oosoji like a pro, and for those looking, here are some Japanese cleaning product recommendations. For lazy cleaners, we also have a list of low-effort Japanese products to keep your home clean. And for those on a budget, there are 100 yen shop must-haves for cleaning that make tidying up before the New Year quick, easy and affordable.

4. Oshogatsu-kazari (お正月飾り)

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After the oosoji is completed, families set about decorating the house with oshogatsu-kazari, or New Year’s decorations. The decorations commonly consist of:

• Kadomatsu: Three bits of bamboo and some pine leaves
• Kagamimochi: Two tiers of mochi, or rice cakes with a tangerine on top
• Shimekazari: A New Year’s wreath

The timing of the decoration is also very important. It is commonly believed that if you rush to decorate your house on the last day of the year, an act referred to as 一夜飾り (ichiya-kazari; “one-night decoration”), it will anger the gods and therefore bring bad luck. So, it’s better to put up those decorations before New Year’s Eve!

5. Toshikoshi Soba (年越し蕎麦)

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Once all the cleaning and decorating are done and New Year’s Eve is upon us, families prepare a traditional meal called toshikoshi soba. The long soba noodles symbolize a general wish for a long life filled with precision and attention to detail.

The topping of the soba depends on which region of Japan you are in. For example, in Tokyo, we often have ebi (shrimp). The ebi’s curved back symbolizes a “long life” and is often used in osechi ryori as well (see below).

Soba also has the symbolism of nagasu or “letting it go” as you slip it down your throat and forget about it—in other words, let everything you’ve been through this year go and move on.

6. Joya no kane (除夜の鐘)

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Joya no kane refers to the large bell at a temple or shrine, rung at midnight on New Year’s Eve to symbolize the beginning of the New Year. It is performed by a temple or shrine priest in front of thousands of shrine or temple visitors who are there for hatsumode (read further to learn more about it).

Japanese New Year’s Traditions

Now that we’ve welcomed the New Year, there’s another round of things to do—starting from 12 a.m. on January 1.

7. Hatsumode (初詣)

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This is the first visit to a shrine or temple in the year, and it’s done to pray for good fortune. It is often associated with queuing up in long lines as people wait to pray for the year ahead, buy some omikuji (Japanese paper fortunes) and omamori (Japanese lucky charms), and write their wishes on wooden plates, called ema.

8. Osechi ryori (おせち料理)

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Osechi ryori is a special dinner/breakfast/lunch (depending on the family and district) traditionally consumed only during the first three days of the year. The women of the house slave over the stove for the last couple of days to complete the meal(s) in order for the first three days of the year to be cooking-free.

Every item in the osechi ryori symbolizes a wish for the New Year: for example, shrimps are for longevity, kuri-kinton (sweet chestnuts) for wealth and the kazunoko (herring roe) is for fertility. Please read this article for the full list of all osechi ryori dishes and their hidden meanings.

9. Ozoni (お雑煮)

© Photo by iStock: hanapon1002

A traditional New Year’s breakfast in Japan typically consists of a broth or soup with grilled mochi added, called ozoni. The broth will vary according to region and to the particular family. Unfortunately, this dish is also behind a number of casualties in Japan every year, as some elderly people pass away due to choking on the mochi—if you eat it, chew it slowly.

10. Buying hamaya (破魔矢)

© Photo by iStock: atosan

Hamaya (literally, “an arrow to break the evil”) is a little wooden arrow purchased at a temple or shrine during hatsumode in order to bring good luck for the coming year. Keep it displayed in your home with the tip facing down throughout the year, and then return it to the shrine the following year for the saito (yearly burn) ceremony, which purifies it for disposal. Buy a new one every New Year and repeat!

11. Omikuji (おみくじ)

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Omikuji are fortunes written on strips of paper, which can be bought at shrines or temples for a small fee (usually ¥100). The best you can get is 大吉 (daikichi) and the worst is 凶 (kyou). The fortunes are often scrolled up or folded as part of the suspense, and if you happen to receive a bad fortune, you should try to use your less-dominant hand to tie it to a special fence reserved on the lot, thus leaving the bad luck behind you.

12. Nanakusa-gayu (七草粥)

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After all the culturing is done and you’ve stuffed your face full of osechi and drunk to your heart’s content (New Year’s celebrations often include plenty of drinking), your stomach may understandably not be too pleased by the full-on food attack, and the Japanese have a clever way to remedy it.

On the seventh day of January, the Japanese make rice porridge called nanakusa-gayu to settle your stomach and soothe the heaviness. Nanakusa-gayu consists of seven types of Japanese herbs and a light broth. Lately, supermarkets have been selling premade kits, so head down to your local one and get it simmering.

If you want to attempt making it yourself, you’ll need to get these seven herbs:

• 芹 (seri; “Japanese parsley”)
• 薺 (nazuna; “shepherd’s purse”)
• 御形 (gogyo; “cudweed”)
• 繁縷 (hakobera; “chickweed”)
• 仏の座 (hotokenoza; “henbit”)
• 菘 (suzuna; “turnip”)
• 蘿蔔 (suzushiro; “daikon radish”)

Once you have your herbs, simply simmer rice and water—often with a bit of salt—to create a soft, plain porridge. Then, add the seven finely chopped herbs, and voilà, your nanakusa-gayu is ready. You can optionally add some dashi stock for a light umami base too, but the traditional version is simply rice, water, salt and the seven herbs.

Bonus New Year’s Terms

© Photo by iStock: gong hangxu

Though the following are not traditions per se, these are terms you will commonly hear during the New Year’s holidays in Japan.

• 仕事納め (shigoto-osame; “last working day of the year”): Also known as goyo-osame, it refers to the last working day of the year (usually Dec. 28 or Dec. 29). As you can imagine, most offices are extremely hectic on this day.
• 元旦・元日 (gantan/ganjitsu; “New Year’s morning/New Year’s Day”): People often say them together or think that they mean the same thing. However, they are separate words, and naturally, have different definitions. Gantan refers to the morning of New Year’s Day, while ganjitsu means the whole day of January 1.
• 初夢 (hatsu-yume; “first dream of the year”): There is a long-standing superstition that at the beginning of the year, if you dream of either Mt. Fuji, a hawk or an eggplant, you will have a year to remember.
• 初日の出 (hatsu-hinode; “first sunrise of the year”): Watching the first sunrise—preferably from a beach, mountain, or rooftop—is believed to bring good luck and a fresh start.

I hope you find this compiled list helpful. Many Japanese families have their own New Year’s traditions and long-established customs that have been passed down from generation to generation, so when in doubt, ask!

Happy New Year’s, everyone!

This article has been republished with the latest information for 2025.

Approximately 14 million people live in Tokyo, so space is, understandably, at a premium. And if you look at the modern apartments in this bustling city, you’ll notice that most of them have a similar interior design—classic white walls, faux wood flooring and off-white bathrooms. Speaking of the latter, a Tokyo apartment bathroom is often compact, functional and (between us) a little monotonous. However, if you look closer, you will find beauty in monotony.

With a creative spirit, you can transform your small bathroom into a serene haven with these aesthetically pleasing products. Allow me to show you how!

Set The Vibe With Candles

Greetings from my Tokyo bathroom! As you can see, I’ve decorated the room with candles and artificial plants. I intended to create a space that would allow me to recharge and rejuvenate after a long day at work. The LED candles are from Ikea. I think they add a sense of coziness to the space. To create a spa-like experience at home, I often turn off my bathroom lights, play some lo-fi music and put these candles on while I indulge in a relaxing soak and sip on green tea.

• Price: ¥1,499 
• Buy: Ikea 

Add Sakura Petals To Your Bath

If you’re obsessed with Japanese cherry blossoms, then you will surely love this Sakura Bath Confetti from Loft. Sprinkle a handful into your bath and the water will slowly transform into a blissful shade of pink. It’s the perfect pick-me-up product when you’re feeling under the weather.

• Price: ¥350 
• Buy: Loft

Pamper Your Skin With Honey

This luxury body wash from Hacci is one of my favorites to use when I want to pamper myself. The mellow honey scent is soothing and it makes the skin feel smooth and smell delicious.

• Price: ¥4,950 
• Buy: Hacci

Mini Plants For The Win

I’m a big fan of artificial plants. They’re low maintenance and look like the real deal. I placed these cute succulents on my bathroom rack to add instant color to my plain white bathroom. It’s a minor detail that contributes to the overall low-key Zen aesthetic.

• Price: ¥299
• Buy: Ikea

Bathe With Yuzus

You don’t have to visit a sento (public bathhouse) to enjoy a yuzu bath. You can recreate the same experience at home! Yuzus are available throughout the year in Japan; you can buy them at supermarkets or order them online. Bathing with these aromatic citrus fruits will help melt away stress and elevate your mood.

Note: If you can’t find yuzu fruit at the supermarket, they also offer a bath salt versions.

• Price: ¥1,000 
• Buy: Amazon

Buff Away Those Dead Skin Cells

Most body scrubs in the market today are either too harsh or too fragrant. Some of them could even irritate your skin and cause it to flare up. This one from Sabon is the perfect product for sensitive skin. It is a cult favorite among Japanese women for its powerful scent. A bit pricey, but worth every yen! It contains almond and jojoba oil. Not only does it exfoliate your skin to perfection, but it also leaves your skin smelling divine.

• Price: ¥3,740 
• Buy: Sabon

Try Dry Brushing

Japanese washcloths are physical exfoliators made from nylon and polyester. You can use them with or without soap and water to cleanse your body. It is like dry brushing if you use them without water. Besides exfoliating the skin, dry brushing with this washcloth helps improve blood circulation, elevates your mood and makes your skin feel softer and smoother. Living in Tokyo, I’d recommend dry brushing once or twice a week.

• Price: ¥799 
• Buy: Amazon

Organize Your Bath Salts

Bath salts and tablets are readily available and affordable in Japan. I like to keep mine in this large bowl. You can also store them in baskets and mason jars. The idea is to spread them out to know how many are with you. Depending on the size of your bathroom, you can choose the container that is best suited to storing your bath products.

• Price: ¥1,430 
• Buy: Amazon

Invest In A Reed Diffuser

A reed diffuser in your bathroom will make the room smell fresh at all times. Unlike candles and electric diffusers, they don’t burn or require power to work. The one in the picture is from Daiso (yes, Daiso stores in Japan now sell reed diffusers as well!) If you’re looking for fresh scents in your bathroom, consider lavender, musk, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, citrus and rosemary. These scents will make you feel relaxed throughout the day.

• Price: ¥1,800
• Buy: Daiso

Bath Bombs For A Luxurious Soak

Lush is one of the best places to shop for bath bombs in Japan. While they offer a variety of them, keep an eye out for the ones exclusive to Japan. I recommend their Temple in the Sky bath bomb. It depicts a sparkly golden Japanese temple and has a fresh citrus scent. 

• Price: ¥920
• Buy: Lush (Japan Only)

I wrote this story to inspire you to transform your cozy Tokyo apartment bathroom space into a sanctuary. If you have more creative design ideas, please share them in the comments below. I’m excited to read yours!

While Japan has many lovely winter flowers to enjoy outdoors, the inside of our apartments can feel drab and chilly from December to March. As the weather cools, we retreat indoors and spend more time huddled under blankets, thick sweaters and fuzzy socks. This is where indoor flowering plants come in—adding warmth, color and life to your living space during the colder months. The indoor world feels far more inviting when flowers help offset the gray winter skies.

1. African Violets

© Photo by iStock: Anna_Hirna

Despite having a (somewhat unwarranted in my opinion!) difficult reputation, afurika sumire (African violets) are beloved flowering houseplants that will bloom all year round. They come in several varieties and feature a petite size, vibrant colors—most commonly purple, red, pink or white—along with rosette-like flowers and soft, fuzzy leaves. You can easily group a number of these flowers together to create a colorful arrangement that will brighten your home this winter.

These plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, preferably near a window, and in well-ventilated environments free from cold drafts. African violets also require a well-draining potting mix, as they perform poorly in either too dry or waterlogged soils. Although these plants prefer humid environments, they are sensitive to misting or having their leaves wet. This can cause browning spots to form. For constant blooms, be sure to fertilize regularly and deadhead the flowers as soon as they are spent.

2. Indoor Roses

© Photo by iStock: ChamilleWhite

You may be surprised to learn that bara (roses) can be grown indoors. However, given the right conditions, these uncommon house plants, too, can sit alongside your other flora. Miniature roses (ミニチュアローズ) are the best and will flower just as beautifully in your home as they would outside, provided you offer them the right environment. Miniature infinity roses (インフィニティローズ), for example, are a type of mini rose that are easy to find in Japan (even in supermarkets sometimes!) and bred for life inside.

Roses require ample sunlight—at least six hours of direct light near a southern or western exposed window—otherwise, they will not be able to thrive. Additionally, like other indoor flowering houseplants, they require a warm and humid environment. Roses are prone to spider mites and are more susceptible if the air becomes too dry. As such, placing them on a bed of moist pebbles is one option to maintain their ideal humidity levels. These plants, like all of our flowering friends, will also likely need regular fertilizing to bloom indoors.

3. Begonias

© Photo by iStock: Anna_Hirna

Begonias (ベゴニア) are versatile plants with striking leaves and colorful, rose-like flowers. Several varieties exist, but wax begonias—named for their waxy leaves—remain the most popular thanks to their unfussy nature and bright foliage. Begonias make lovely, affordable gifts and add a touch of attractiveness to any houseplant collection.

Begonias are relatively easy to care for, but overwatering can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely and let the plant show slight drooping before watering again. Additionally, since they are tropical plants, they require warm and humid environments (which is usually not a problem for most of the year in Japan). Begonias enjoy indirect sunlight and generally grow well indoors because they don’t need extensive hours of daylight to produce a continuous supply of gorgeous blooms.

4. Anthuriums

© Photo by iStock: OKrasyuk

Anthuriums (アンスリウム) originate in the warm, humid rainforests of South America and stand out for their dramatic flair and low-maintenance nature. Their flowers, or “spathes,” resemble large, brightly colored leaves that bloom in bold reds, pinks and whites. Because they resemble poinsettias, anthuriums have grown increasingly popular as winter holiday decorations. These flowers make festive centerpieces and pair beautifully with other tropical plants, such as orchids and begonias, for year-round displays.

Anthuriums typically flower sporadically throughout the year, with each flowering period lasting about eight weeks. They may take a few months to adjust to a new environment, so don’t worry if blooms don’t appear right away. Place them near a window for direct sunlight, especially in winter, and maintain high humidity to help them thrive.

5. Orchids

© Photo by iStock: Maryviolet

Although ran (orchids) are known for being difficult indoor plants, they’re nevertheless a popular choice for their unique beauty and array of colorful blooms. The most common one is the gochooran (Phalaenopsis orchid), also known as a moth orchid for its eponymously shaped flowers. Measuring about two to five centimeters in diameter, these flowers can come in whites, purples and yellows and are capable of flowering for four to six months of the year.

When keeping orchids, one fatal mistake is overwatering. While they certainly like quite a bit of water, root rot tends to settle in easily. As such, water orchids only when the top of the soil feels slightly dry. Choose soil explicitly designed for orchids, or opt for a well-draining mix that doesn’t dry out too quickly. Place them near east- or west-facing windows for direct sunlight, maintain 40–60% relative humidity, and allow a 10-degree difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures to enjoy showy blooms at least once a year—and twice if you’re lucky.

With these five flowering flora, you’re well on your way to making your Japanese home warmer with splashes of colorful petals.

What indoor flowering plants do you like to have inside during the winter months? Let us know in the comments below!

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year), this time of year is filled with holiday celebrations—and all the festive foods that go with it. In this Tokyo dietitian’s guide to festive feasting, I want to address a concern I hear every November and December from many of the patients who visit my office: how to balance meals in a way that allows them to enjoy their favorite holiday fare while still maintaining their health.

I completely understand their struggle, which is why I’m happy to share what I’ve learned through my work as a dietitian over the years. And before you start to worry that this will be another nutrition article suggesting you swap cauliflower into all your holiday recipes or warning about the dangers of sugar, let me reassure you that this is not that article.

Read on for tips on how to include balance and joy as you savor the season with these holiday eating dos and don’ts.

Healthy Holiday Eating Dos

Get Comfortable Living In The ‘Grey’

© Photo by iStock: AzmanJaka

Although many patients will tell me that they are an “all or nothing” kind of person and want to jump right in on a strict meal plan complete with lists of “good” and “bad” foods, the truth is that those types of diets or meal plans aren’t sustainable over long periods of time.

When I think of the patients who were most successful in making long-term dietary changes, they all shunned such rigid, “black and white” thinking and became adept at living in the space between severe restriction and complete abandonment of their nutritional goals. They didn’t live in fear of sweets and treats and were able to enjoy foods that were less nutrient dense—like dessert or alcohol—while still prioritizing ones that were.

This might look like having pizza with a large salad on the side or enjoying a lovely holiday lunch at a fancy restaurant, but planning a dinner filled with lots of vegetables, lean protein and whole grains that also taste delicious once back at home.

These types of patients never had to worry about “falling off the wagon” because they never got on it in the first place. They were patient with their progress and understood that the health or nutrition outcomes they wanted were only possible with time, consistency and making peace with food and eating.

Understand That Any One Meal, Snack Or Dessert Won’t Make Or Break Your Health

© Photo by iStock: PamelaJoeMcFarlane

Whenever a patient comes in panicking about an upcoming holiday meal or an outing like a bonenkai (end-of-year party), I find it’s often helpful to look at the bigger picture. Assuming you eat three meals a day, one meal is only 0.09% of your total food intake for the year.

So just like eating one salad won’t magically make all your health problems disappear, neither will enjoying one holiday meal. What you do consistently matters the most.

Offer To Bring Fruit Or Vegetable Dishes To Holiday Gatherings

© Photo by iStock: Elena_Fox

While I think you should enjoy your favorite holiday foods regardless of whether they’re nutritious or not (more on that later), you’d be surprised how appreciative people are if you bring a fruit or vegetable-filled side dish to a holiday party.

In the excitement over more decadent holiday dishes, fruits and vegetables often get overlooked. Yet in my experience, people are always happy to have them as part of their meal, and in many cases, it’s one of the first dishes to run out!

This time of year has amazing seasonal produce, such as mikan (orange), daikon, yuzu or komatsuna (Japanese spinach) that can be incorporated into dishes or salads that are sure to be a hit.

Appreciate Other Aspects Of The Holidays That Don’t Involve Food

© Photo by iStock: monzenmachi

Even though festive meals are a big part of the holidays, don’t let food and food anxiety overshadow the many other wonderful parts of the holiday season. From enjoying the holiday illuminations to visiting the shrine for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year), the holidays aren’t just about eating—they are also about joy, connection and celebration.

Healthy Holiday Eating Don’ts

Don’t Skip Meals Before Holiday Gatherings Or Parties

© Photo by iStock: Prostock-Studio

“Saving up” calories before a big holiday meal or event almost always guarantees a binge. Plan to eat regular, nourishing meals instead.

Don’t Feel You Need To Make “Healthy” Versions Of Your Favorite Holiday Food

© Photo by iStock: JackF

There is nothing wrong with modifying a favorite holiday recipe to incorporate more nutrient-dense foods or to accommodate a dietary requirement, such as a dairy or gluten allergy. However, don’t feel like you must do that if what you really want is to enjoy the holiday meal or food as it is.

Research has shown that people who deprived themselves of their favorite foods—such as chocolate—not only experienced more cravings for the restricted food but also ended up eating more than those who didn’t restrict those foods in the first place.

So if what you really want is a piece of Christmas cake, don’t feel like you have to settle for some fruit or a sugar-free dessert instead—have the cake and enjoy it guilt-free!

Don’t Punish Yourself If You Overindulge In Food Or Drinks During The Holidays

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Avoid the temptation to restrict your food intake in response to overeating at a holiday event. Doing so only puts you in a binge and restrict cycle, since severe dietary restriction often results in overeating later due to feelings of deprivation and shame.

While it is okay to listen to your body and eat less food if you aren’t hungry at your next meal, punishing yourself by barely eating is counterproductive.

In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, striking a balance between eating and celebrating can be challenging. Yet with the tips above and an extra serving of fruit and vegetables (sorry for the shameless fruit and veg plug but I am a dietitian after all!), you can start the new year healthy, happy and well nourished.

Republished for 2025.