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!

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a holiday celebrated annually on March 8 with a focal point in the women’s rights movement. Here at Savvy Tokyo, we wanted to share with our readers some ways this day can be celebrated in and around Tokyo! First, get to know the history of IWD in Japan, from its early beginnings here in 1923. Then, read on for Tokyo’s many IWD events where you can celebrate the history and victories of women’s rights in Japan and learn what work still needs to be done to advance gender equality. While you’re at it, why not consider volunteering for a Japan-based organization focusing on women’s empowerment?

The History of International Women’s Day in Japan

© Photo by iStock: Vittorio Gravino

While the first International Women’s Day was held on March 11, 1911 in several European countries, its roots lay in the United States a few years earlier. In 1909, the Socialist Party of America organized the first National Women’s Day in New York City to protest the poor labor conditions facing female garment workers. During World War I, these marches also became key sites for anti-war protests across the globe. March 8th became the official day when Russian women protested against food shortages, the war and the czarist government.

In 1923, the feminist socialist group, Akarankai organized Japan’s first International Women’s Day march to call for women’s liberation. As with other marches around the world, socialism’s critiques against capitalism’s enslavement of women drove the protest’s messages. The protest was violently suppressed by the police and the next International Women’s Day wouldn’t be held in Japan again until 1947. Since then, annual marches have taken place to call for gender equality and world peace. In recent years, marches have focused on ending war, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and closing the gender pay gap.

International Women’s Day Events in Tokyo for 2026

To celebrate International Women’s Day in Tokyo this year, join like-minded people at the exciting events below. Whatever angle of IWD interests you, you are sure to find an event of interest in Tokyo this March!

Happy Woman Festa Tokyo 2026

© Photo by Happy Woman Festa Tokyo 2025

The Happy Woman Festa 2026 is a series of events organized to celebrate IWD across Japan. The theme this year is Towards a future where happiness circulates. Make sure to reserve your seat in advance!

• Date: March 8, 2026
• Times: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.(Happy Woman Festa 2026)
• Address: United Nations University, 5-53-70 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!
• Note: The dress code for the Happy Woman Festa 2026 is yellow, the official color for IWD.

College Women’s Association of Japan’s Celebrates International Women’s Day

© Photo by College Women’s Association of Japan

CWAJ marks International Women’s Day with a special staged reading of Mimoza Ways. The performance explores 100 years of Japanese women’s history, from the Seito Movement led by feminist pioneer Hiratsuka Raicho to the present day, blending reflection with moments of humor. A Japanese-French co-production that has received acclaim since its 2022 premiere, Mimoza Ways is the first Japanese production to trace a century of women’s experiences in this way. The reading is directed by Yu Yamagami and features Tsurumatsu Matsukuma, Yuko Ueno, Rena Koto and Yu Yamagami. Following the performance, a talk session with producer and translator Namino Rivoal Hori, along with the director and cast, will offer further insight and discussion. The event will be in Japanese.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Address: Theater X, Ryogoku City Core 1F, 2-10-14 Ryogoku, Sumida, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥4,000

The Yellow Walk & Mimosa Day Award Party

Dress in yellow and join a vibrant celebration that will turn Tokyo into a moving field of mimosa! On March 7, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ)’s Yellow Walk kicks off at the Italian Embassy, winding through the city in a powerful tribute to International Women’s Day before arriving at the iconic Tokyo Tower. The celebration doesn’t stop there either. Afterward, you can join the exclusive Mimosa Day Award Party, where you’ll enjoy live DJ music, signature cocktails and finger food while soaking in the classic high-rise view of Tokyo.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Meeting time: 5:45 p.m.
• Walk time: 6-9 p.m.
• Address: Tokyo Tower Main Deck 1F, 4-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo
• Cost: Free to walk; Yellow Walk + Mimosa Day Award Party (includes a ticket to Tokyo Tower Main Deck, all-you-can-eat buffet and drink); ICCJ Members: ¥6,600; Non-Members: 8,800; Mimosa Day Award Party only: ICCJ Members: ¥8,800; Non-Members: 11,000
• Note: Dress as yellow as possible!

International Women’s Day Breakfast & Panel Discussion Australian Embassy Tokyo

The Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ANZCCJ) invites you to Pullman Tokyo Tamachi for IWD 2026. This year’s theme is “Give to Gain” and will feature a panel discussion with several senior business leaders. Over breakfast, these panelists will highlight single mothers and single-parent households living in Japan.

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Time: 8 a.m.-9 a.m. (doors open at 7:30 a.m.)
• Address: Pullman Tokyo Tamachi ​Banquet Room 9F, 3-1-21 Shibaura Minato, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥10,000 (ANZCCJ members), ¥12,000 (non-ANZCCJ members)
• Note: Attendees must register by Feb. 27, 2026

Women’s March Tokyo 2026

As with other IWD events globally, the Women’s Day March in Tokyo will be one of this year’s main events. This event has been held in the city since 2017. The one-kilometer march will begin and end at Jingu-dori Park in Shibuya Ward and all participants are invited to the after-party. Attendees who don’t want to be photographed can gather together behind a “no photos” sign during the event. Come join others to call for gender equality and an end to violence.

• Date: March 8, 2026
• Meeting time: 5:30 p.m.
• Start time: 6 p.m.
• Address: 6-22-8 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!

Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s International Women’s Day Specials

Grand Hyatt Tokyo Hotel will be offering a variety of IWD specials. At the Mimosa Dinner – The French Kitchen, between March 1 and 8, offer the women in your life the stunning Mimosa Mousse Cake, designed by women patissiers. Whether you are sampling their seafood saffron nage or digging into a mimosa rare cheesecake, mark this year’s IWD with upscale dining!

• Date: March 1 – 8, 2026
• Address: Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
• Cost: Prices vary depending on the dish or course.

Mimosa Week

For up-to-date information about the state of women in Japan alongside beautiful illuminations, head to the Former Kunitachi Station. Inside this historic building, you can learn about recent developments in women’s issues on poster boards. Join a workshop on the eighth on how to make mimosa badges to show your support for women’s equality. Also, read up on several gender-related case studies exploring the experiences of women. As a special treat, there will be an illumination event featuring using yellow lights, the official color of IWD.

• Date: March 5- 10, 2026
• Address: Former Kunitachi Station Building, 1-1-69 Higashi, Kunitachi, Tokyo
• Cost: Free!

BCCJ’s International Women’s Day 2026

The British Chamber of Commerce in Japan (BCCJ) will be hosting talks over dinner for International Women’s Day. Her Excellency Julia Longbottom CMG, British Ambassador to Japan, will speak on explring leadership and her experiences leading the UK-Japan relationship alongside voices from business and civil society. Offering an opprotunity for open dialog and collaboration, this event is open to all genders.

• Date: March 18, 2026
• Time: 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
• Address: PwC Tokyo, 1-2-1, Otemachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• Cost: ¥5,000 (BCCJ members); ¥8,000 (non-members)

We hope you enjoy your International Women’s Day in Japan! How are you planning on celebrating?

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!

Japan has recently released a “love diagnostic” test called Love Character 64, aimed at uncovering your “love type”, which can help you deepen your romantic connections. It is also available in English, so you can leave polishing your Japanese reading skills for another day and focus on matters of the heart. In this post, we’ll explore this test, which sorts love types into cute LINE characters, in detail below! 

Love Types: The Basics

Do you know your Love Type? A Japanese team, supervised by the Japan Romance Studies Association, devised the  “Love Characters 64”  to help you discover your tendencies in love. By completing a series of 18 questions, the test reveals which of the 16 love types you are, as well as your compatibility with others and your ideal partner type. 

The 16 types are also broken down into four subtypes based on the new dimensions of how independent you are in a relationship and how much you prioritize building a future together. 

The point of the test is not just to find your character type. Its creators intended it to be a step towards a journey of understanding that can deepen your relationship with yourself and your partner. So, even if you don’t have a partner, you can gain valuable insight into your values concerning romance and emotions. 

The Six Dimensions

The Love Types are based on how you score on six dimensions. Each type and character is created using a combination of the first four dimensions and then further divided via the last two. 

For example, the “Capable Manager” is a combination of FARE (following/accepting/realistic/earnest) as well as VD (visionary dependent), VI (visionary independent), ND (natural dependent) or NI (natural independent). 

Since terms like “natural” have specific meanings in the test, check out the brief explanation below to get a sense of it. 

Lead/Follow 

Are you the leader and decision-maker in the relationship or do you follow your partner’s pace?

Cuddly/Accepting 

Are you happiest being taken care of or would you rather be the protector?  

Realistic/Passionate 

Are you looking for a stable and long-term relationship or one based mostly on passion?

Optimistic/Earnest 

Are you interested in a love based on freedom or on being serious about each other?

Visionary/Natural 

Are you someone who is seeking marriage and long-term commitment or who lives for the joy of the present moment? 

Devoted/Independent 

Are you interested in a relationship where you spend most of your time together or where you respect each other’s separate time and hobbies?

The 16 Love Types

Read on for our very short introduction to the 16 love types if you’re curious about yourself or want to decode someone’s dating profile. 

Boss Cat (LCRO) 

This type is a free-spirited leader with a soft side looking for a stable partner. 

Hidden Baby (LCRE)

This type likes to lead in relationships and appears reliable, but also wants to be taken care of. 

Protagonist (LCPO) 

This type is a leader, drawing many suitors with their charm and falling in love based on passion. 

Tsundere Yankee (LCPE)

This type leads with intensity and passion and faces relationships head-on.

Admired Senior (LARO)

This type is a leader desiring their own space while also wanting to be relied on. 

Charisma Balancer (LARE)

This type is a steady leader who faces relationships seriously and wants to be relied on by their partner. 

Perfect Chameleon (LAPO)

This type leads with passion and spontaneity and is also able to shift into a reliable partner when needed. 

Captain Lion (LAPE)

This type is a natural leader, facing relationships earnestly and with intensity. 

Romance Magician (FCRO)

This type is very skilled at reading people and wants a long-term love who respects their freedom and desires. 

Clever Rabbit (FCRE) 

This type is both affectionate and gentle and has the ability to carefully evaluate who will make them happy in a relationship.

Love Monster (FCPO)

This type falls in love quickly and deeply, passionately adoring their partner and bringing much joy and energy to any relationship. 

Loyal Hachiko (FCPE)

This type is honest and committed to their partner, embracing them wholeheartedly while bringing warmth and sincerity to all relationships.  

Mysterious Creature (FARO)

This type, despite some difficulties expressing themselves in love, possesses a unique charm that draws people in. 

Capable Manager (FARE)

This type is great at adapting to their partner and supporting them while prioritizing a steady long-term commitment.

Devil/Angel (FAPO) 

This type adapts to their partner and enjoys being the protector, but also needs freedom in a relationship. 

The Last Lover (FAPE)

This type falls passionately in love and seeks to protect and care for their partner forever. 

Have you taken the Japanese 16 Love Types test? Let us know your type and how accurate you think it is below!

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

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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

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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

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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

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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 

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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.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

Beautiful layers of white cream adorn a fluffy cake with plump strawberries on top—this has long been the iconic image of Japanese Christmas confectionery. Still, its Christmas cake history goes much further back than many people realize.

Christmas cakes were first sold in Japan in 1910, and the ubiquitous ichigo shotokeki (strawberry shortcake) only hit shelves in 1922. It wasn’t until the postwar period, in 1952, that the strawberry shortcake Christmas cake became more accessible to the general public and cemented its place in Japan’s Christmas imagery (and stomachs across the nation).

To understand the history of this tasty tradition, we must delve into the past of Fujiya, a storied Japanese confectionery maker.

Introducing Christmas Cake To Japan

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Fujiya, now with branches nationwide, is a patisserie that was initially based in Yokohama. In 1910, Fujii Rinemon opened his first shop in Motomachi, the upscale neighborhood adjacent to the Yamate and Kannai districts where the foreign population of Yokohama lived and worked. As the Meiji era dawned, the Motomachi area blossomed. The streets were soon dotted with cafes, clothing stores and bakeries. The Fujiya store was at the vanguard of this explosion of Western culture in Yokohama, where many overseas customs and wares spread to the rest of the country.

Indeed, in December of the same year, Fujiya offered the first Christmas cake sold in Japan. Arranged simply with silver ball decorations, the cake was a single-layer glazed with white fondant frosting, made by mixing sugar and water. But the difference with today’s decadent fresh cream concoctions was not merely aesthetic. The cake was not a Japanese sponge cake—known now as the shortcake—but rather a fruit cake, steamed in the oven and made of plums, dried fruit like raisins and alcohol.

1921 was a particularly bustling Christmas and a fateful one for Fujii. With business booming, thanks in part to a craze that year for decorated cakes, he opened a second store. To his surprise, his customer base was also shifting from foreign customers to Japanese ones. In 1922, Fujii developed a special cake to sell at his two shops, inspired by his studies abroad in the United States.

The Stawberry Shortcake

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While stateside, he tried a dessert called a shortcake—two scones filled with cream and fresh fruit and named for the shortening used in the biscuit dough. Fujii felt fascinated by the flavor but believed the crunchy scones wouldn’t suit the Japanese palate.

Instead, he chose to make his shortcake out of a sponge cake. He drew inspiration from the ever-fashionable castella cake, another local interpretation of a Western (this time Portuguese) dessert which emerged in the late 1500s. His resulting creation, combined fresh cream and American-style strawberry shortcake with a softer, spongier cake, making it the first strawberry shortcake sold in Japan.

Many people believe the kouhaku (red and white) color combination—traditionally used for celebrations and shared with the hinomaru (rising sun) national flag—helped drive the popularity of strawberries and cream as the country’s signature Christmas cake style. Still, however, in the 1920s, these cakes were exceedingly extravagant. Without refrigerators in most homes, their potential for the astronomical fame that awaited would remain dormant until the postwar period.

For Everyone To Enjoy

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In 1952, on the eve of Japan’s “long postwar,” only a few months after the American occupation force left the country, Fujiya held its first-ever Christmas sale. In what would become a tradition across Japan, the strawberry shortcakes lined the shop window, inviting customers to enjoy the sweet treat for the holidays.

By the mid-1960s, the strawberry shortcake’s place in Christmas culture was firmly established. Elaborately decorated two-layer cakes became increasingly common. This design, along with the classic taste pioneered in the early Showa era, continues to dominate Japanese imaginings of Christmas sweets.

Modern Christmas Cakes

© Photo by Ritz Carlton Tokyo

While the shortcake reigns supreme, the current market for Christmas cakes is not exclusively red, white and fluffy crumb cake. Instead, chocolate, pistachio, blueberries, ganache and buttercream turn into festive creations across modern patisseries.

Additionally, Japanese pastry chefs have incorporated traditions from other countries to diversify the confectionery landscape. Popular examples include France’s buche de Noël (a Christmas log cake) and Italy’s panettone (a Christmas sweet bread).

While stand-alone patisseries certainly make cakes, department stores and hotels are now the primary purveyors. They often open advance sales as early as mid-November with many selling out before the months end. Conbini (convenience stores) also get into the Christmas cake game, offering their own strawberry shortcakes. And, of course, some families opt to make their own, too.

As for my family, we usually opt for a strawberry shortcake, but last year, we diverged and went with chocolate. Honestly, it was a bit disappointing not to be met with the mouthfuls of sweet-tart strawberries and cream, so we will return to our (Japanese Christmas) roots this year alongside so many other eager sweet tooths.

And if you’re wondering if Fujiya continues to specialize in shortcakes at Christmas time, the answer is a resounding yes. You can find their stores throughout Japan, in both standalone shops and inside department stores, such as Aeon. Celebrating over 100 years since their founder’s first shortcake, they continue to sell classic Christmas cakes.

Did you know about Japan’s Christmas cake history? What sort of sweets do you celebrate this festive season with? Let us know in the comments!

One of the joys of raising children in Japan is discovering the magical world created by Japanese children’s book authors. Although I could have easily doubled this list, the five authors and illustrators below are must-reads for your little ones.

While most have at least some of their works published in English translation, for their full collections, you’ll need to read in Japanese. Of course, this can double as language practice—but one of the beautiful things about children’s books is that their drawings and emotions speak across cultures and languages.

1. Taro Gomi

Perhaps one of Japan’s most prolific children’s book authors is Taro Gomi. From his first work, “Michi” (Road), in 1973, Gomi established his unique art style, characterized by bold colors and humor. Through his meticulous attention to a kid’s eye view of the world, his books allow adults to rediscover the souls of their childhood selves. Look no further than some of Gomi’s most enduring works, like my daughters’ favorite, Kingyo ga nigeta! or The Goldfish Got Away in its English translation.

While he has published over 400 titles in Japanese, only a handful have been translated into English. One of the most notable is the entertaining toddler and preschooler favorite Minna Unchi (Everyone Poops).

Besides standard children’s books, Gomi is also the author of the popular Rakugaki (doodle) series. These interactive books encourage kids to participate in the creative process by drawing, coloring, doing mazes, and more.

2. Rieko Nakagawa

The author of one of Japan’s most popular and enduring picture books, Nakagawa was born Omura Rieko in 1935. She worked as a nursery school teacher for fifteen years. This experience enabled her to write children’s books that resonated with the hearts of young readers. Many of her books were illustrated by her younger sister, Yuriko Omura (later Yamawaki). Omura did not attend art school but loved to illustrate her older sister’s uplifting stories.

Nakagawa and Omura’s most famous collaboration is the Guri to Gura series. It was first published in the monthly magazine Haha no Tomo in 1963 and later released as a hardcover in 1967. Many sequels and media adaptations followed and the food-loving field mice protagonists became a constant in bookstores across the country. In addition to writing children’s books, Nakagawa also wrote lyrics, with perhaps the most famous being the opening song “Sanpo” (Hey Let’s Go) in Studio Ghibli’s smash hit, My Neighbor Totoro.

3. Mamoru Suzuki

A dropout from the prestigious Tokyo University of the Arts, Suzuki has created many evocative picture books for children of all ages. His heart-warming stories, often co-written with his wife, Takeshita Fumiko, draw on their experiences from child-rearing. A bird lover and researcher, he has also penned children’s books about birds, like Fushigi na tori no su (The Mysteries of Birds’ Nests).

Whether centered on animals or humans, Suzuki’s detailed drawings beautifully capture everyday life and the tender love between parent and child. This is especially evident in his popular book Anata ga daisuki (You Belong to Me).

Colors play a key role in Suzuki’s work. He begins each piece with a color image that shifts as the story unfolds. The book above, for instance, moves from pink to blue as the character grows. When depicting scenes of daily Japan, such as in his series on transportation vehicles, his vibrant illustrations inspire children to notice and delight in their surroundings—from the buzz of a city train station to the calm of a mountain road.

4. Mitsumasa Anno

From his first publication in the late 1960s to his representative work, Tabi no ehon (Anno’s Journey), Mitsumasa Anno’s (1926–2020) richly detailed work has captivated children’s imaginations. After serving in the Japanese military during World War II, Anno obtained his teaching license and taught elementary school in Tokyo for 10 years before becoming an illustrator. Most of his children’s books were illustrated using pen and ink as well as distinctive light-colored watercolors.

His books are known for their exquisite, people-filled landscapes and subtle references to literature, science and mathematics. The Journey series, in particular, portrays European, American and Japanese historical towns. It is widely praised for helping children develop cross-cultural awareness.

Anno’s artistic career extended far beyond picture books, too. His creative legacy even includes a museum dedicated to his work in Kyoto Prefecture.

5. Sachiko Kiyono

Sachiko Kiyono (1947–2008) is the author of the wildly popular series, Nontan. Nontan, an extremely mischievous white cat, plays and jokes with his animal friends in the engaging short books aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Kiyono’s drawings, which render the main character in wavy lines drawn by a thick marker, are very distinctive and speak to children. Indeed, many kids themselves must be eager to copy her style, following a drawing guide in the books, as my eldest daughter did. Pre-publication, Nontan was originally drawn as a fox, but after receiving editor feedback, he was changed to a cat to be more child-friendly.

Before publication, Nontan was initially drawn as a fox. After receiving editor feedback, he was changed to a cat to be more child-friendly. Since 1976, when the first Nontan volume was published, Kiyono has received some backlash for her beloved character. Critics have called Nontan selfish and ill-mannered. However, Kiyono always defended her artistic choices. She explained that she wanted to create books that children would truly enjoy and that were distinct from the moralistic tone of much of children’s literature.

So, if you’re looking for a Christmas or birthday gift—or adding to your bedtime collection—check out the works by the Japanese children’s book authors above for something truly special.

When I used to vacation in Japan, I had fun getting creative with the kitchens or kitchenettes in my Airbnb. The lack of Japanese kitchen appliances and space made for both excitement and last-minute trips to the 100 yen shop. Could I cook pasta, a sauce and a side vegetable all on one hot plate? Could I produce a tasty stir-fry on a burner that inexplicably turned itself off every two minutes?

When I moved here with my family, however, amusing inconveniences became a closer part of my reality. Unlike the four-burner stove and oven setup I was accustomed to in Canada, I initially had only two occasionally temperamental gas burners, with a small fish grill positioned underneath them. Because I love cooking and I am feeding a family, we outgrew this setup almost immediately.

While my pocketbook wept, we quickly added a rice cooker to the mix, alongside some other small appliances to make procuring three meals a day much more pleasant and convenient. Below is my list of five that won’t be leaving my kitchen anytime soon. I heartily recommend them to help you get on track with home cooking and all the health benefits it brings.

1. Hot Plate

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The first item on this list is perhaps as well-used as the stove in my house: the Bruno hot plate. The Bruno, with its sleek design, fashionable colors and multi-insert functionality, first wowed me years ago in a Tokyu Hands display on a trip to Japan. The base model and the “grande” large model both come with a non-stick flat pan and a takoyaki (grilled octopus ball) pan, allowing for endless riffs on meals and snacks.

Indeed, in one of its forms (including the grill pan, which I bought separately), the Bruno is in use every lunch and supper. It’s great for vegetable side dishes, such as roasting eggplants or bell peppers. It also frequently takes on pancake duty in the morning when the two stove burners are in use.

With its powerful cooking ability and adjustable heat, I also confidently cook meat and fish on it. Long story short: consider this fancy hot plate the solution to many of your mansion cooking needs.

2. Toaster Oven

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While toasting our bread over the fish grill did provide a certain enviable crispiness for the first few months, it wasn’t long before I caved and bought a toaster oven. More than just producing beautiful roasted bread, however, I was interested in rekindling another pre-Japan hobby of mine: baking.

By choosing a toaster oven that has customizable temperature dials, we were soon awash in muffins, brownies and cakes. Although certainly smaller than a conventional oven, my toaster oven fits conveniently in my small kitchen, while providing the same benefits.

Of course, you can also use it to bake vegetables, fish and meat, making it a multi-functional item. But, for our family, its real value lies in the ability to whip up sweet and savory treats. It fills the home with a much-needed inimitable perfume of baked goods.

3. Food Processor

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I have seen kitchen blogs and magazines label compact food processors as useless. But hear me out! I’m not sure they ever tried to cook in a tiny apartment kitchen without an oven or four burners. You need to upgrade your appliances, but admittedly, the space to put them is also limited. Thus, your cooking prep space will be reduced to…not much. This is where the food processor comes in!

While I have no problem cutting all my veggies by hand (I actually find it rather meditative for whatever reason), I do run out of space, especially if we are chopping on separate cutting boards. Our compact food processor, which can be easily relocated, condenses the time and space necessary to, for example, chop carrots for a sauce. And with two little ones around, saving on time and space simultaneously is worth another purchase!

For the record, I went brand-loyal and matched the set. I have the Bruno blender and food processor combo, but a simple food processor will also accomplish the same thing.

4. Portable Gas Grill

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A portable gas grill is more than just a convenient way to do yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) at the beach or while camping (although that is a lot of fun!). Indeed, with the interchangeable attachments, such as the yakiniku grill plate or the nabe (hot pot) pan, this appliance also significantly expanded the range of cooking options in my small kitchen and dining room.

Gas grills are also undoubtedly practical as they can be ported wherever you go. Most of the time, mine is simply brought to the kitchen-adjacent dining room table. For example, I’ve lost count of all the cold wintery days where we have warmed up in front of a bubbling nabe while my little ones delight in food cooking on the table in front of them.

Additionally, let’s not forget the importance of gas grills during natural disasters. You can easily keep spare gas canisters in your home emergency kit and use the grill to provide food for your family in case of an electricity outage.

5. Water Boiler

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Last, but no less essential, is a water boiler. No, it isn’t a kettle. This is a key appliance in any Japanese household, thanks to its ability to maintain the temperature of boiling water for extended periods. I personally lugged a water boiler with numerous functions from Narita to Canada, enduring the mocking of a Canadian customs agent.

No matter whether in my home country or in Japan, I didn’t want to be without the convenience of never needing to wait for the water to boil to get a late-night ramen fix or having to cool down my own water to make the perfect cup of sencha.

At home in our Japanese mansion, the water boiler is indispensable in compensating for the lack of more gas burners on our stove. The pre-boiled water can be transferred to a pan to steam or boil vegetables quickly, and cook pasta or noodles. I went with a Zoujirushi, but only you know how much customization you need!

In the wonder-inducing consumer paradise (or prison, depending on your viewpoint!) that is a Japanese electronics and home appliance store, I stand by these powerhouse kitchen appliances. With a hot plate, toaster oven, food processor, gas grill and water boiler, your little kitchen will buzz along more smoothly than ever before.

What Japanese kitchen appliances do you have in your apartment that you can’t live without?