Ai Faithy Perez, Author at Savvy Tokyo

12 Essential Japanese New Year’s Family Traditions

Ai Faithy Perez — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

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

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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)**

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

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.

All You Need to Know About Christmas Shopping in Japan

Ai Faithy Perez — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:00:00 +0000

It’s started. Halloween has come and gone, and Christmas decorations and signs went up almost overnight, as if Santa Claus were coming to town early. My thoughts automatically turn to the inevitable last-minute Christmas shopping—a mad dash runaround, stressing over whether or not I’ve forgotten something or someone.

Perhaps I’m not alone in thinking that Christmas shopping ought to be less stressful. For those of us who share the same opinion, there is a silver lining: planning ahead of the Christmas shopping hordes is possible and even enjoyable when armed with the right information.

I’ll be listing a few useful words and phrases to help in your shopping endeavors. Additionally, I’ll list a few great areas where you can do the deeds while keeping your children entertained at the same time.

What To Expect When Shopping

The Christmas shopping season in Japan begins as early as Halloween ends and continues through November, with stores becoming increasingly festive through December 24. The busiest days tend to be December 23 and 24, as many people purchase presents just before Christmas Eve.

The best part about Christmas shopping in Japan is how incredibly organized and charming it can be—mainly thanks to the country’s exceptional gift-wrapping culture. Most department stores and even smaller boutiques offer beautifully professional wrapping, often free of charge, and many shops will ask what style you prefer or add seasonal touches without needing to be requested.

When Do The Sales Start?

In recent years, a few retailers have started adopting light Black Friday promotions. You can expect to spot small sales, especially in large department stores like Aeon, around late November. However, unlike in many Western countries, Japan doesn’t associate Christmas itself with significant discounts or markdowns. Instead, shops reserve the biggest price drops for the New Year period, when fukubukuro (lucky bags) and seasonal sales begin.

So while Christmas shopping here feels magical, it’s definitely not the cheapest time of year to buy—save your bargain hunting for January!

Useful Christmas Shopping Phrases

When you walk into any shop here in Japan, someone will probably shout いらっしゃいませ (irasshaimase) at you. I have no idea why they feel the need to shout at potential customers, but it means “welcome.”

Unless you’re at a Uniqlo in Tokyo or some large city department store, there is a good chance that no one in the whole shop will speak English. One of the braver shop attendants may approach with a nervous smile and a 何かお探しでしょうか? (nanika osagashi deshouka?; “Are you looking for something?”)

If you are, and you don’t speak a word of Japanese, explaining what you need in English might be ok. They will try their best to accommodate you. If not, say “daijoubu desu,” meaning “I’m good.”

Some other things you may hear are:

お客様のサイズを探し致しましょうか？(okyakusama no saizu o osagashi itashimashouka?; “Shall I look for that in your size?”)
こちらでよろしいでしょうか？(kochira de yoroshii deshouka?; “Is this one alright?”)
以上でよろしいでしょうか？(ijou de yoroshii deshouka?; “Is that all?”)
他に店内をご覧になりますか？(hokani tennai o goran ni narimasuka?; “Would you like to look around a little more?”)

Some useful phrases:

おいくらでしょうか？(Oikura desu ka?; “How much does it cost?”)
こちらのSはありますか？(Kochira no S wa arimasuka?; “Do you have this in small?”)
こちらの色違いはありますか？(Kochira no irochigai wa arimasuka?; “Do you have this in another color?”)
試着できますか？(Shichaku dekimasuka?; “Can I try it on?”)
これを見せてください。(Kore o misete kudasai.; “Could I have a look at this one?”)
これを下さい。(Kore o kudasai.; “I’ll take this.”)
これはなんですか？(Kore wa nandesuka?; “What is this?”)
考えさせて下さい。(Kangae sasete kudasai.; “I’d like to look around a little more.”)
ラッピングお願いできますか？(Rappingu onegai dekimasuka?; “Do you do gift wrapping?”)
これをラッピングして下さい。(Kore o rappu shite kudasai.; “Please wrap this one.”)
レシートをお願いします。(Reshiito o onegaishimasu.; “Could I get a receipt?”)

Tokyo Shopping Centers That Are Worth The Visit

Among the vast number of shopping districts around Tokyo, here are three of my personal favorite places to shop in the city during the holiday season.

Aqua City (Odaiba)

Just a one-minute walk from Odaiba station, Aqua City has everything—from fireworks displays (all Saturdays in December and Christmas Eve, from 7 p.m.) to the more mundane stuff like ToysRUs. It’s child- and pet-friendly, offers themed events and practical services, such as stroller rentals. Aqua City appeals to all.

Tokyo Dome City (Korakuen)

Upon arrival, you may hear blood-curdling screams in the distance, but don’t be alarmed. Tokyo Dome City is a hybrid of a mall (Laqua) and an amusement park, featuring a 1,100-meter-long roller coaster and over a dozen rides and attractions designed for kids. Not as many shops as Aqua City, but the number of rides, restaurants and cafes more than makes up for it. Promise!

Tokyo Solamachi (Oshiage)

Tokyo SkyTree, the tallest tower in the world, stands 634 meters above a densely packed city that is home to around 300 shops and restaurants, an annual Christmas market, a mini aquarium and a planetarium. Great for kids, pets and Christmas shopping, and a lovely place to spend a day off.

Also worth checking out are the numerous European-style Christmas markets that appear around Tokyo in December. You can find handmade ornaments, festive trinkets, mulled wine, seasonal foods and plenty of giftable items you won’t see in regular shops. These markets are the perfect place to pick up uniquely Christmas-themed items that feel extra personal and seasonal.

Happy early Christmas, and good luck!

Updated with the latest information for 2025.

Nihonshu: The Newbies’ Guide To Japan’s Sake Scene

Ai Faithy Perez — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:00:00 +0000

You’ve seen it with your foreign friends on their first visit to an izakaya—wondering why the sake is flowing out of the glass into a strange-looking square box; trying to figure out the many labels; and then confidently ordering “sake,” to which the waiters respectfully reply, “Which one?” Yes, the sake in this country is just as deep as its oceans.

The first and foremost thing you need to know about Japanese sake—or 日本酒 (nihonshu)—is that it’s primarily broken down into two very large groups:

清酒 (Seishu; “clear sake”): the one you can drink
料理酒 (Ryorishu; “cooking sake”): the one I recommend you don’t

The word “sake” in itself is often misunderstood among non-Japanese people as the name for seishu, or more commonly known as nihonshu. The kanji for sake (酒) means “alcohol”—including your beer.

In this nihonshu guide, readers will learn about different variations of the drink, the manners associated with it, three recommended spots in Tokyo to sip it, and my personal favorite three nihonshu to try!

Know Your Sake: The Variations

Below are the different grades of nihonshu from highest to lowest. The grades are determined by the polished ratio of each grain of rice, known in Japan as seimai-buai (精米歩合). Generally, the lower the number, the purer the brew (and the more it’ll cost you). Also, a lower percentage often results in a fruitier nihonshu (not necessarily sweeter), whereas a higher percentage will taste more like rice.

Junmai Daiginjo-shu (純米大吟醸酒: Pure rice, Extra Special brew): Rice Polishing Ratio, or senmai-buai (SB), below 50%
Daiginjo-shu (大吟醸酒: Extra Special brew): SB, below 50%
Junmai Ginjo-shu (純米吟醸酒: Pure rice, Special brew): SB, below 60%
Ginjyo-shu (吟醸酒: Special brew): SB, below 60%
Tokubetsu Junmai-shu (特別純米酒: Rice, Koji rice): SB, below 60% or produced by special brewing method
Tokubetsu Honjozo-shu (特別本醸造酒: Rice, Koji rice, Distilled alcohol): SB, below 60% or produced by special brewing method
Junmai-shu (純米酒: Pure rice): SB, below 70%
Honjyozo-shu (本醸造酒: Genuine brew): SB, below 70%

Most of the nihonshu above have two or three ingredients: rice, koji rice and distilled alcohol. Only the junmai-shu does not include the distilled alcohol.

Serve It Right

Tokkuri and o-choko

Nihonshu is served in three different ways:

Chilled (reishu; 冷酒)
Room temperature (joon; 常温 or hiya; 冷や)
Heated (atsukan; 熱燗)

The recommended temperature of the nihonshu may vary depending on the drinker’s preference, the quality of the nihonshu, and the season.

Nihonshu is traditionally served in what looks to be an equivalent of a milk jug (without a handle) called tokkuri and divided into little espresso-type cups called o-choko. This is especially common when serving the nihonshu hot or warm, as it keeps the liquid from cooling. But in recent years, this has not always been the case. Nihonshu is almost always heated immediately before serving to keep the aromas and flavors.

Masu

Another traditional way of serving is the masu, a wooden box made out of hinoki (cypress) or sugi (Japanese cedar) (yeah, that one that puzzled your friend at the izakaya). Originally used for measuring rice, the masu holds exactly 180 ml, and as a sign of generosity, many bars and restaurants will place a glass in the masu and/or a small plate underneath, and fill all containers ‘til you get a perfect meniscus. So, no, if this happens, it wasn’t a mistake!

Watch The Manners

If you’re planning to drink nihonshu at home, this may not apply, but in Japanese culture—OK, I hate to say it, but—you’re expected to (or “should”) pour your table-partner’s drink. When yours is poured in return, hold the brim of the o-choko with one hand and place the other on the bottom.

When drinking, although you may be tempted to do a “sake shot,” given the size of the cup, you should sip slowly, like you would a fine wine. Nihonshu is also often paired with things such as raw fish and other foods of delicate flavors, so enjoy the set one bite and sip at a time!

Favorite Sake Bar Hotspots

Sakeba

The good news is that recently, more restaurants and bars have started to realize that sake can be so much fun. As a result, we’re continuously seeing more nihonshu bars opening in the city, reaching a wider audience than the typically associated oyaji (old men) groups. Here are three personally recommended in Tokyo.

1. Sakeba

Sakeba is a cozy little bar just a few minutes’ walk from Shibuya Station’s south exit. It specializes in nihonshu from various areas of Japan and traditional Japanese food. It has a relaxing wooden interior and brilliant service.

Open: Daily, 5 p.m.-11 p.m.
Address: 3 Chome-15-2 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

2. Shubo (酒母)

Shubo in Ikebukuro is the real thing, as we can guess from its name: the kanji “酒母” literally means “Sake Mother.” The best thing about it: it has an all-you-can-drink sake plan!

Open: Mon-Fri: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sat: 3 p.m.-11 p.m. (Closed Sundays)
Address: 4 Chome-23-6 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

3. Amanogawa (天乃川)

Amanogawa, based at the Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku, is the bar to be at if you’re in the mood for some refinery and luxury. Chances are, the bill will reflect it.

Open: Daily, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Address: Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo 1F, 2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)

My Top 3 Recommended Nihonshu

If you’re not sure where to start when choosing your nihonshu, go for the following three—nothing can go wrong!

Jyuyondai (十四代), Yamagata prefecture
Kubota (久保田), Niigata prefecture
Dasai (獺祭), Yamaguchi prefecture

All three of my personal favorites range from the highest premium to the lower, more affordable grades of nihonshu. I recommend you ask one of the swanky nihonshu bars (mentioned above) for a tester of each as a guide before settling in with your liquid gold.

Kampai to your brilliant nihonshi journey ahead—find yourself back at this guide whenever you’re lost!

10 Must-See Japanese Summer Festivals

Ai Faithy Perez — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Summer in Japan brings a number of creative things to help you beat the heat—watermelon and salt sodas, kakigori (shaved ice), bon dance and yukata, to name a few. But there’s only one place you can enjoy them altogether in a true Japanese experience: the late summer night matsuri (festivals).

You’ll see a great deal of summer festivals happening across Japan as early as in July through to the end of the season: they’ll be at your local shrine or outside your station in the form of bon odori (bon dance) or yatai (food stalls); in the streets as parades or dashi festival cars; or as hanabi taikai—fireworks near rivers and lakes. You may also see communities getting creative by spicing up their summer matsuri with karaoke competitions or drink-up events—all in the name of celebrating the season and getting that sweat out of your system!

While there are countless unique festivals across the country, here’s a round-up of our top 10 to see in Tokyo and other parts of Japan.

1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival (Tokyo)

Rumored to have had its first launch in 1733, the Sumida River Fireworks is one of the most popular (and crowded) summer festivals in Tokyo. With nearly four centuries of history, it survived the Meiji Restoration and continued strong until it fizzled out during the World Wars and a few decades following. The festival was reinstated in 1977, and this year it celebrates its 48th anniversary in its current form. Visitors will see a spectacular view of 20,000 fireworks, but be prepared—last year, nearly one million people went to this event, so expect large crowds, too!

When: Sat, July 26, 2025, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. (In the case of bad weather, the event will be cancelled.)
Where: Sumida River, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Access: Nearest station for first venue: Asakusa Station, Oshiage Station, Tokyo Skytree Station or Hikifune Station; Nearest station for second venue: Asakusa Station, Kuramae Station, Ryogoku Station or Asakusabashi Station

2. Shinjuku Eisa Matsuri (Tokyo)

Born on the island of chinsuko (traditional biscuit) and brown sugar, Okinawa’s dance and music culture has always been different from that of the mainland, and Eisa Matsuri is no exception. The traditional costumes, drumming and dancing will be at the height of the “new and improved”—after all, the majority of dancers will be in their 20s and 30s. The origin of the name is unknown, but there is a theory that says the name was derived from an exclamation used in the original song of Eisa—“ensaa.” This year will be its 22nd event and the organizers are expecting around one million people to join the fun, so again, be prepared for the crowd!

When: Sat, July 26, 2025, 12 p.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: Shinjuku Station, West Exit

3. Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri (Tokyo)

The Fukugawa Hachiman Matsuri is one of the three great Shinto festivals in Tokyo, along with the Kanda Matsuri and the Sanno Matsuri. It’s held at the vintage Tomioka Hachiman Shinto shrine in Tokyo’s Koto district. Dated back to 1642, the festival sees the shrine’s mikoshi (portable shrines) being carried down the local streets while the onlookers splash purifying water at the mikoshi-bearers. Be warned, though: you will get wet at this event, so go well prepared.

When: Sat, Aug. 16-Sun, Aug. 17, 2025, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Tomioka Hachiman, 1-20-3 Tomioka, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Access: Monzen-nakacho Station, Exit 1

4. Azabujuban Noryo Matsuri (Tokyo)

The Azabujuban Noryo Matsuri’s “Noryo” translates to “summer nights” according to many dictionaries, but on closer inspection, the definition is more accurate to “escape the heat and find coolness.” Having a reputation for being on the “trendy” side of festivals, as opposed to “traditional,” the majority of the 300,000 festival-goers are young folks, all united under the same goal—to stuff their face. The stalls peddle regional specialties from all over Japan, from the northern island of Hokkaido to the southern island of Okinawa. The Bon Dance in the evening is also a must-see experience.

When: Sat, Aug. 23-Sun, Aug. 24, 2025, 3 p.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Azabu-juban shopping district
Access: Azabujuban Station, Exit 4

5. Koenji Awaodori (Tokyo)

Originating from Tokushima Prefecture in Shikoku, Awaodori is the most popular type of Bon dance in Japan. Taking off in Tokyo approximately 66 years ago, this festival is now considered one of Tokyo’s largest and best-known summer events of its kind. With 10,000 dancers moving through the streets of Koenji, the little city has succeeded in attracting nearly one million visitors yearly. It gets crowded, but the experience is priceless!

When: Sat, Aug. 23-Sun, Aug. 24, 2025, 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Sugunami-ku, Tokyo, Koenjiminami 2nd, 3rd and 4th Chome, and Koenjikita 2nd and 3rd Chome
Access: Koenji Station

6. Soma Nomaoi (Fukushima)

Famous for horse breeding, the Soma region in Fukushima Prefecture holds the annual 1,000-year-old festival, Sama Namaoi. Organized by three different shrines in the area—Ota Shrine, Odaka Shrine and Nakamura Shrine, the highlight of this festival is a recreation of an age-old battle scene from Japan’s turbulent Sengoku period. Clad in elaborate armor and holding katana swords, the several hundred samurai horsemen race to grab the 40 shrine flags that are shot into the air with skyrockets.

When: Sat, Jul. 24-Mon, Jul. 26, 2025, From 9:30 a.m.
Where: Nomaoi Gyoretsu and Hibarigahara Field, Soma, Fukushima
Access: JR Haranomachi Station

7. Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori)

The Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, or simply Aomori Nebuta, is one of the three largest festivals in the Tohoku region. “Nebuta” refers to the gigantic paper floats made in the shape of fierce warriors. According to the legend, the shogun Sakanoue no Tamuramaro is remembered for placing giant, lit-up lanterns at the top of hills with him and his soldiers while waiting to ambush the Emishi tribesmen. Presently, at festivals, the dancers wear a unique outfit (which I can only describe as kimono-ish with a fruit basket for a hat), called haneto and call out “rassera” while dancing wildly around the floats. One of the largest in the country, this matsuri should be on everyone’s Japan bucket list.

When: Sat, Aug. 2-Thu, Aug. 7, 2025, Times vary (Check updates on their official website)
Where: Aomori City Hall (and around)
Access: JR Aomori Station

8. Sendai Tanabata Matsuri (Miyagi)

Tanabata, literally meaning “the evening of the seventh,” originated from the Chinese Qixi Festival that celebrates the annual meeting of a young cowherd and a weaver girl, known in Japan as Orihime and Hikoboshi. While Tanabata festivals are celebrated throughout Japan, the Sendai Tanabata Festival is the most popular, with nearly two million tourists flocking to see the thousands of wishes that decorate the bamboo trees. It’s a spectacular sight and a wonderful opportunity to experience Japan in its brightest and liveliest!

When: Wed, Aug. 6-Fri, Aug. 8, 2025, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: Kotodai Park Citizens’ Square (Central Sendai and neighboring shopping districts)
Access: JR Sendai Station

9. Kyoto Gozan Okuribi (Kyoto)

Gozan Okuribi (literally, “five mountain send-off fire”), or more commonly known in Kyoto as Daimonji (big letter), is almost like a summer equivalent to Halloween. During Obon, households around Japan prepare their homes to welcome back the spirits of their ancestors, and on the third day following, light giant bonfires around the city of Kyoto, in the shape of five Chinese characters—Daimonji (“large” or “great”), Myo-Ho (“wondrous dharma,” referring to Buddhist teachings), Funagata (“boat shape”), Hidari Daimonji (“large left”), and Toriigata (“shrine gate shape”). A spectacular sight that attracts millions of tourists annually, for a good reason.

When: Sat, August 16, 2025, from 8 p.m.
Where: Central Kyoto, panoramic view possible from Funaokayama Park
Popular viewing areas: Daimonji: Along the east bank of the Kamo River (Marutamachi Bridge-Misono Bridge), Myoho: Around Notre Dame Women’s College, Funagata: Along Kitayama St. (Northwest of Kitayama Bridge), Hidaridaimonki: Along Nishioji St. (Saiin Station-Kinkakuji Temple), Toriigata: Saga Arashiyama Area

10. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (Osaka)

The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival first took place in 1703 when the daimiyo (feudal lord) of Kishiwada Castle, Okabe Nagayasu, prayed to the Shinto gods for an abundant harvest. Today, the festival has a reputation for being Osaka’s wildest and boldest. The local boys will try to prove their courage and bravery by dancing on the roofs of the 35 floats being pulled through the streets, known as “Danjiri”. All floats are elaborate, hand-carved and weigh over 3,000kg. Famously, the most exciting part of the hyper-parade is the danjiris going around corners at a 90-degree angle. A dangerous festival that takes manpower to a whole new level.

When: Sun, Sep. 7, Fri, Sep. 12-Mon, Sep. 14, 2025 & Sun, Oct. 5, Sat, Oct. 11-Sun, Oct. 12, 2025
Where: Near Kishiwada Station, Kishiwada City, Osaka Prefecture
Access: Kishiwada Station

Are you going to any of these Japanese summer festivals? If so, feel free to tag us on Instagram; we’d love to see your pictures!

Republished with the latest information for 2025.

Kodomo No Hi: A Guide To Children’s Day in Japan With Recipes

Ai Faithy Perez — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Kodomo No Hi (Children’s Day) in Japan is a vibrant national holiday dedicated to children. It is celebrated annually on May 5th (or “double fifth”) during the Golden Week holidays. To the untrained eye, fish swimming in the sky may seem like an odd affair—colorful carp-shaped flags hoisted from balconies and ominous-looking samurai armor adorn family living rooms. Let us fill you in on this traditional public holiday in Japan!

Kodomo No Hi: Back To The Origins

During the Nara period (710 to 794), May 5th was known as Tango no sekku (端午の節句), a day for women to purify the house and rest their bodies. This was due to May being the rice planting season—a sacred time of year, as many believed they had to welcome the rice god to pray for a bountiful harvest. Young women called “Saotome“, sacred beings of the time, were in charge of planting the rice and had to purify themselves as they were the ones welcoming the god of the rice fields.

However, during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), as the samurai class took control of the government, the day was changed to celebrate young boys instead. In 1948, the government changed the official name to Kodomo No Hi to celebrate all children, but even today, the day continues to involve traditional customs of its samurai origins.

Most Japanese people still consider and celebrate the day as Boys’ Day. This does seem only fair as there is a Girl’s Day (Hinamatsuri) celebrated on March 3rd or “double third”—though Girl’s Day is not an official public holiday.

How Do You Celebrate Children’s Day in Japan?

The Armor & The Beetle

Families celebrating Kodomo no Hi will decorate their homes with samurai armor and helmet miniatures, representing their wishes to raise strong boys. The armor (yoroi, 鎧) and helmet (kabuto, 兜) form the word yoroikabuto, which you will hear often around this time of the year.

Those of you studying Japanese may find a useful mnemonic in the word for the helmet—kabuto—which sounds an awful lot like the kabutomushi (Japanese stag beetle) and in my eyes bears more than a passing resemblance. The kabuto was the inspiration behind Darth Vader’s helmet and the traditional versions still retain a sense of that menace.

The Carp Symbolism

Households with boys will also hoist fierce and colorful carp flags outside their homes, and you can witness the same in various public places across the country.

The annual Children’s Day Festival at Tokyo Tower oversees hundreds of carp flags in celebration of the holiday.

According to an ancient Chinese legend, a mixed school of fish tried to fight their way up a waterfall called “Ryumon” (龍門), or dragon gate. While all the other fish gave up and drifted downstream, the carp persisted, and once inside Dragon Gate, they transformed into dragons. While there are different versions of this age-old tale, the Japanese version ripened into a proverb—koi no taki-nobori, 鯉の滝登り. I’m going to go out on a limb and guess that that folk wisdom was shortened into 鯉のぼり, “koinobori,” the modern name for the famous carp flags.

The black carp, the largest one on the koinobori flag, represents the father and is known as the magoi, 真鯉. The red carp represents the mother (higoi, 緋鯉), and the last carp (often blue) represents the child (traditionally, the son) with an additional carp added for each younger sibling.

Children’s Day Dishes

Traditionally in Japan, there are special foods that go with every holiday or occasion, and Children’s Day is no exception. Japanese people cook chimaki (粽) for this holiday—a rice cake made out of steamed sticky rice, or mochigome (餅米), wrapped in a bamboo leaf—and kashiwamochi (柏餅), a sweet Japanese treat. Here’s how to make your own.

Children’s Day in Japan Recipe: Chimaki

Ingredients

3 cups of mochigome, 餅米 or glutinous rice (can be purchased at any supermarket in Japan). Rinse and leave in a colander for 30 minutes before cooking
Cooked pork, 150g (cubed, about 1 cm)
Dried baby shrimps, 20g (rehydrated and coarsely chopped)
Dried shiitake mushrooms, 4-5 (rehydrated and cubed, about 1 cm)
Bamboo shoots, 100g (cubed, about 1 cm)
Carrot, half (cubed, about 1 cm)
Shiitake and shrimp soaking liquid, about 3 cups
Soy sauce, 1 tbsp
Sugar, 1 tsp
Oyster sauce, 1 tbsp
Cooking sake, 2 tbsp
Salt, 1/2 tsp
Pepper, a pinch
Sesame oil, 2 tbsp
Bamboo leaves, 10 (wiped down with a damp cloth)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the sesame oil.
Cook the rice and all other ingredients besides the seasonings and liquids for three minutes.
After the rice starts to glisten, add all the seasonings and the liquids to the same pot. Stir constantly until the liquid is gone. Be careful not to burn the rice at the bottom.
Wrap the mixture with the bamboo leaves, make triangles, and tie them with thin bits of the leaves. Steam for 10 minutes on medium heat.
Turn off the heat and keep the lid on for an extra 10 minutes before serving.

Children’s Day in Japan Recipe: Kashiwamochi

This wagashi (Japanese sweets) calls for the seasonal kashiwa oak leaf to wrap the rice cakes in. It will give it its distinct look and name as these rice cakes are named according to whichever leaf it may be wrapped in.

Ingredients

Jyoshinko, 上新粉 (a fine/high-grade rice flour, available in any Japanese supermarket), 250g
Water, 350cc
Koshi–an, こしあん (smooth sweet bean paste) or ogura–an, 小倉餡 (sweet bean paste with whole beans), 300-350g (rolled into balls the size of plums, about 30g each)
Kashiwa oak leaf, 10 (washed and dry patted)

Instructions

Add the flour and water to a heatproof glass bowl. Mix well. Cover with cling film and microwave for five minutes and 30 seconds at 600w.
Knead 15 to 20 times on a large piece of cling film.
After kneading, put the dough in a Ziploc bag and chill it on iced water for about 20 minutes. Make sure not to get any water in the bag.
After it’s chilled, knead it four to five more times.
Break it up into about 10 pieces (about 50g each). Roll them out so they look like stretched pennies. Put the koshi–an or oguro–an onto one end of the oval and fold it over, pinching the edges together.
Cover the less attractive side with the kashiwa oak leaf and voilà!

Now you’re ready to set the table, raise your koinobori flag and your glass to the health and strength of children everywhere. Happy Children’s Day in Japan!

This article was originally published in 2017 and updated with the latest information for 2025.

Hinamatsuri: Girls’ Day Celebration in Japan

Ai Faithy Perez — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 23:00:00 +0000

As a small child, I used to think that Japan’s Girls’ Day (or Dolls’ Day)⁠—Hinamatsuri (ひな祭りor 雛祭り)⁠—was actually called ‘Princess Day,’ as the Japanese word for doll, hina (雛) sounds similar to princess, hime (姫). At that time, I was a dress-obsessed tomboy, but I still wanted to be a princess. Hence, I was really looking forward to Hinamatsuri.

A Reminiscence Of Heian Beauty

Celebrated on March 3 every year, Hinamatsuri is one of Japan’s most beautiful unofficial holidays. It is a day on which Japanese households with young daughters decorate their homes with Heian period 雛人形 (hina ningyo; “hina dolls”) disposed on a red-cloth-covered seven-tiered platform called 雛壇 (hinadan).

The hina ningyo are placed in this order:

The Emperor and Empress: Seated in front of a golden folding screen with lanterns on either side.
Three Court Ladies: Holding utensils, to attend the imperial couple.
Five Male Musicians: Each plays a traditional Japanese instrument.
Two Ministers: An old minister and a young minister, act as protectors.
Three Helpers or Samurai: Representing palace attendants with different facial expressions.
Household and Palace Furnishings: Miniature chests, dressers and storage boxes.
Carriages and Other Items: An ox-drawn cart, a palanquin and additional storage chests.

These dolls are used to pray for girls’ prosperity, health and, traditionally, a stable and successful marriage.

The Origins Of Hinamatsuri

Similarly to many Japanese traditional customs, Hinamatsuri is believed to have originated as a ritual to ward off evil spirits and to pray for a prosperous and healthy future. One of its earliest indirect mentions in literature, found in The Tale of Genji, describes the third day of the third month as a purification day when people would transfer evil spirits into dolls and release them into rivers and oceans.

Back in those days, people believed that dolls could contain evil spirits. Households with girls made hina ningyo out of straw and sailed them down the river in boats, supposedly taking all the potential misfortunes with them. This tradition is known as hina nagashi (雛流し).

The custom developed into displaying the dolls in homes on hinadan in 17th-century Japan, when Princess Okiko, the daughter of Emperor Go-Mizunoo, played with a doll display set up exclusively for her. When she assumed the throne in 1687 as Empress Meisho, she popularized the holiday as Hinamatsuri. Since then, craftsmen across Japan have been developing various hina dolls for the holiday, and the practice continues today.

How is Hinamatsuri Celebrated in Japan?

Nowadays, most families with daughters decorate their homes with one—to seven-tiered platforms of hina dolls. The decorations start in mid-to-late February and are kept until the end of March 3. Traditionally, parents or grandparents of a newborn girl buy a set of hina ningyo decorations for the baby’s first Hinamatsuri.

Families take the decorations down immediately after Hinamatsuri as superstition claims that keeping the dolls up past March 4 will result in a late marriage for the daughters. In some areas of Japan, people still release paper dolls in water after the holiday, praying for health and good luck.

A Tasteful Celebration

In addition to decorating platforms with gorgeous dolls, Japanese people also celebrate this day by enjoying special foods and drinks.

1. Shirozake

First of all, the customary drink for the Hinamatsuri festivities is shirozake (白酒), traditionally consumed for purification and good fortune. It consists of a sweet sake that contains enough alcohol (nine percent) to make parents cringe. Although, back in the day, it was said that everyone (including children) drank this sake, now that it is under the Liquor Tax Law, you cannot give any to children. For modern parents, the non-alcoholic amazake is a great alternative. Just watch out as some amazake have very low but not zero alcohol content, too.

2. Hina Arare

Arare (あられ) is a rice cracker named after hailstone or snow pellets. Typically, hina arare are colorful and symbolize the four seasons (pink for spring, green for summer, yellow for autumn and white for winter). They have flavors of soy sauce or sugar, depending on the region.

3. Hishi mochi

Another sweet delicacy is hishi mochi (菱餅), a multi-layered rice cake with colors arranged from top to bottom in red (pink), white and green. Pink symbolizes protection from evil, white represents purity and green signifies health and growth. In certain regions of Japan, yellow may replace red, or the mochi layers may number five or seven instead of three. Historically, people shaped this sweet as a rhomboid during the Edo era, believing it symbolized fertility.

4. Chirashizushi

Chirashizushi (ちらし寿司) features savory rice seasoned with vinegar, sugar and a pinch of salt. It typically includes a variety of sashimi and colorful ingredients, arranged in layers atop the rice, representing prosperity and happiness.

5. Ushiojiru

Lastly, Ushiojiru (潮汁) is a salt-based soup containing clams as the main ingredient. The clamshells symbolize the unity and peacefulness of a harmonious marriage, as only two perfectly symmetrical twin shells can fit snugly together. Just like snowflakes, no two clamshells are alike.

Modern Hinamatsuri

Nowadays, many people also buy beautifully decorated and very feminine cakes and other sweets to celebrate the day. For parents, it’s the perfect occasion to start a tradition of taking snapshots every year as your daughter ages. If you have a daughter, celebrate this day like a local and decorate with hina dolls at home. Come March 4, put your dolls away as soon as you can so that your precious girl(s) can grow happy and healthy!

Recently, city halls (such as Hino) or Tokyo art exhibitions have also been displaying hina dolls. If you didn’t have time to do your own set-up this year or if you are just curious, these exhibits offer a perfect occasion to get accustomed to the celebration and catch a glimpse of traditional Japan.

Happy Hinamatsuri!

This article was originally published in 2016 and has been updated with the latest information for 2025.

The Wonderful World of Japanese Street Food

Ai Faithy Perez — Fri, 06 Sep 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Japanese street food is a vibrant and essential part of the country’s culinary culture, offering an array of delicious and unique treats. During the summer months of June through September, Japan comes alive with natsumatsuri (夏祭り), or summer festivals, where street food takes center stage. In this enchanting atmosphere, the cool, reserved demeanor often seen in Tokyo melts away, replaced by a shared joy in the festivities and, of course, in enjoying Japanese street food.

As summer winds down, don’t worry—there are still plenty of places to enjoy Japanese street food beyond the festival season. In this article, we dive into the most common Japanese street foods and guide you on where to find the best street food in Tokyo.

Japanese Street Food Classics
Japanese Street Food Sweets
Internationally Influenced Street Foods
Where To Eat Japanese Street Food in Tokyo

Japanese Street Food Classics

Japanese street food vendors are known as Yatai and offer various traditional foods in Japan. Here are some savory classics:

Takoyaki (たこ焼き): Stodgy octopus balls (not testicles) topped with mayonnaise and sauce, similar to Worcestershire sauce.
Yakisoba (焼きそば): Stir-fried noodles with chopped cabbage, carrots and bean sprouts flavored with a Worcestershire-like sauce.
Ikayaki (いか焼き): Grilled whole squid, often served with a slice of lemon, mayonnaise and shichimi pepper.
Yakitoumorokoshi (焼きとうもろこし): Grilled sweet corn on the cob, typically brushed with soy sauce.
Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き): A savory pancake with sliced cabbage, bonito flakes and various toppings; the name literally means “cook to your choice.”
Ayu no Shioyaki (鮎の塩焼き): Sweetfish (ayu) salted on the tail and fins, then slow-cooked over a glowing charcoal barbecue.
Isobeyaki (磯辺焼き): Mochi (pounded rice cake) brushed with soy sauce and wrapped in dried seaweed.
Kushiyaki (串焼き): Anything grilled, baked or barbecued on a stick. Often meat, seafood, fish cake or a mix with vegetables.
Karaage (唐揚げ): Japanese-style fried chicken, often marinated in soy sauce and garlic.
Gyoza (餃子): Pan-fried dumplings filled with minced pork, cabbage and seasonings.
Nikuman (肉まん): Steamed buns filled with seasoned pork or other savory fillings.
Korokke (コロッケ): Japanese croquettes, often filled with mashed potatoes and minced meat, then breaded and fried.
Menchi Katsu (メンチカツ): A deep-fried breaded meat patty made from minced meat, often pork or beef and onions.
Kare Pan (カレーパン): A deep-fried bread filled with Japanese curry, offering a crispy exterior and a flavorful curry filling.

Japanese Street Food Sweets

These are the choices your kids will probably beg you for:

Kakigori (かき氷): Shaved ice topped with syrup flavors like strawberry, melon, lemon and the mysteriously named “blue Hawaii.” Perfect for cooling down in the summer heat.
Ringo Ame (りんご飴): Candied apples, also known as toffee apples. In recent years, vendors have expanded to include candied grapes, strawberries, pineapples and mikan (tangerines).
Wataame (綿あめ): Fluffy cotton candy or fairy floss, often packaged in bags designed with popular Japanese characters, is a top favorite among children at festivals.
Choco Banana (チョコバナナ): Bananas on a stick, dipped in chocolate and often coated with colorful sprinkles.
Anzu Ame (あんず飴): Canned fruits dipped in syrup, then chilled on ice. Served with an edible wafer plate, similar in texture to an ice cream cone.
Baby Castella (ベビーカステラ): Miniature versions of the traditional Japanese honey cake, often molded into fun shapes or characters, such as Doraemon.
Taiyaki (鯛焼き): Fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste, custard or chocolate.
Dorayaki (どら焼き): Pancake-like patties filled with sweet red bean paste or other fillings like custard or whipped cream.
Oobanyaki (大判焼き) / Imagawayaki (今川焼き): A waffle-like cake with various fillings depending on the region.
Dango (団子): Skewered rice dumplings, often grilled and glazed with sweet soy sauce or topped with sweet red bean paste.
Yaki Imo (焼き芋): Roasted sweet potatoes with a caramelized sweetness.
Age Manju (揚げ饅頭): Deep-fried buns filled with sweet red bean paste, offering a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Internationally Influenced Street Foods

Furankufuruto (フランクフルト): or Frankfurt, refers not to the German city on the Main River but to the sausage on a stick, sold loaded with ketchup and mustard. Sometimes the mustard is replaced with karashi, the Japanese equivalent of mustard, except it has a surprisingly strong wasabi-like spiciness that will make your eyes water.
Amerikan doggu (アメリカンドッグ): or American dog, is commonly known around the world as a corn dog. In Japan the traditional cornmeal around the sausage is made with Hottokeki Mikkusu (hotcake mix), a popular pancake mix by Japanese confectionary company Morinaga.
Chi-zu doggu (チーズドッグ), or cheese dog, uses a similar batter to the American dog; this Korean-style corn dog often has cheese or other fillings, reflecting the Korean take on the classic American corn dog.
Furaidopoteto (フライドポテト): While not traditionally Japanese, fresh fries with unique Japanese seasonings like nori (seaweed) or curry powder are commonly found at street food stalls.
Tapioca (タピオカ): Known as bubble tea or boba, this Taiwanese-origin drink has become a trendy street food in Japan. It is often served with chewy tapioca pearls in various flavors but milk tea is the Japanese fan favorite.

Where To Eat Japanese Street Food in Tokyo

Summer Festivals

Tokyo and its surrounding areas host a multitude of summer festivals and fireworks from early July through September. Each festival features a unique array of street foods. If you are new to Tokyo and have no way of knowing where the summer festivals are, just listen for the music and follow the paper lanterns. Or, check out our list of must-see Japanese summer festivals and unique Japanese summer festivals.

Food & Shopping Streets

Popular tourist food and shopping spots like Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa Nakamise-dori, Harajuku Takeshita Street, Shibuya and Ameya Yokocho are well-known for their vibrant street food scenes. However, Tokyo also has slightly more unique shopping streets that offer classic and unique street food experiences. Check out this list of shopping streets for a taste of local Japan.

Convenience Stores

Japanese convenience stores are a treasure trove for street food enthusiasts, especially in their hot food sections. Here, you’ll find a variety of ready-to-eat Japanese street foods like kushiyaki, korokke and nikuman. While it might not be from a street stall, with convenience stores on almost every street in Japan, it’s practically street food at your fingertips!

Department Store Basements (Depachika)

Department store basements, or depachika, though not directly on the street, allow you to enjoy the flavors of Japanese street food with a touch of elegance. You can find classic treats such as takoyaki, korokke, kushiyaki and taiyaki, all presented with high-quality flair. Although the food sold in depachika is often sold for takeaway, some locations have a sitting area where people can enjoy the food immediately. You can always take the food out and find a park or public area to enjoy it too. Check out these Tokyo department store food emporiums.

Other Seasonal Events and Festivals

Seasonal events and festivals in Japan are filled with cultural traditions and delicious street food. Each season brings its own unique festivals, where street food stalls offer a wide range of treats that reflect the flavors and spirit of the time.

New Year’s Festivals: During the New Year, many temples and shrines host shōgatsu (New Year’s) events, where street food stalls provide warming snacks and sweets to celebrate the season.
Autumn Festivals: Although less focused on street food than summer festivals, autumn festivals still offer a variety of seasonal treats, celebrating the harvest season with special foods.

What Japanese Street food is your favorite?

This article has been updated with the latest information for 2024.

Sexism and Culture: Japan’s Obsession With Kawaii

Ai Faithy Perez — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Could sexism in Japan be directly related to the country’s heavy consumption of all things kawaii (cute)? “Kawaii” is clearly deeply rooted in Japan’s culture. Walking into a zakkaten (variety shop), you may be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of kawaii products—from the plastic pens topped with cutesy characters to the fluffy blankets with animated animal faces sewn into them.

It’s odd to me, even though I’ve spent most of my life here, that a grown adult is moved to spend their hard-earned cash on things like anime figurines. C’mon, even Toy Story did a full 103 minutes about “growing up” and “leaving toys behind”! The fact is, kawaii culture is seen as this innocent part of Japanese culture. Yet, if you go beyond the surface with how the root of the word morphed and examples like how symbols of feminism have to be watered down in Japan, there’s much more to it than its glittery exterior.

Where did the word “kawaii” come from?

A lot of people are used to hearing the word “kawaii,” but many don’t really know where it originated, or that the word has evolved greatly over time.

The modern usage of the word translates into “cute”, “lovable” or “adorable.” The original form of the word, however, came with a darker twist. In ancient times the word was “kawo-hayu-shi”, which literally means, “face flushed.” It described the feelings of “embarrassment, awkwardness and self-consciousness.”

[…] females are perceived as cute only if they revert back to their childish identities—both physically and mentally.

Kawaii went under a type of “word-morph,” that gave it some qualities that are still found in modern-day society. Ethologist Konrad Lorenz proposed that “baby schema” is a particular set of physical features, such as a large head and eyes, a round face and chubby cheeks, which are perceived as cute or cuddly and elicit the motivation to care for adolescent creatures in adults. In species where the young depend entirely on such care (like humans) it may be a matter of survival (excluding, of course, social stigma).

This is apparent in connection with kawaii culture. In Japan, females are perceived as cute only if they revert back to their childish identities—both physically and mentally. Japan seems to have incorporated the theory of “baby schema” into many of its products.

Modern-Day Kawaii Clash

An example of how much the Japanese value “kawaii-ism“ is how strong female characters are portrayed to Japanese fans, including the classic Wonder Woman. She is an age-old icon of feminism around the globe.

Fans on Twitter were distraught with how Warner Brothers Japan depicted her in their 2017 campaign ads. Warner Brothers Japan marketed the movie like this: “Move over, Harley Quinn! Special Japan release for Wonder Woman, the number one warrior beauty the world has been waiting for. She’s supposed to be one of the most powerful superheroes in existence. But, she’s also an incredibly innocent and naive girl who knows nothing about men or love. The trailer is narrated by Kotono Mitsuishi, the voice actor who plays Sailor Moon in the animated series!”

Unless you’re an anime-lover, you may not be aware that Kotono Mitsuishi is considered to be the epitome of kawaii voices. The furthest thing from what a lot of people would consider Wonder Woman to be about. Kawaii-ism may be cute on the outside, but it’s laced with an age-old idea that women should be demure and submissive. Is it a pure coincidence that Wonder Woman had to be remarketed for it to appeal to the masses here?

Sexism and Kawaii

The kawaii phenomenon attracts attention from around the world. Art exhibitions like “Yes, Kawaii is Art -Express Yourself,” a recent one in California, show the upside. After attending an event like this, you might think that it comes down to modern pop culture, while others declare kawaii culture’s roots have a sexist overtone.

The connection between kawaii-ness and sexism might not be so apparent. However, judging by Japan’s need to portray a strong, confident woman as innocent and naive speaks volumes. The need for women to be submissive spills over into other realms of life.

Working Women in Japan

Japan’s glass ceiling is much lower than its Western neighbors. In March of 2024, The Economist released data ranking the best and worst countries to be a working woman. Of the 29 countries on the list, Japan was nearly last (only beating Turkey and South Korea). Countries like Iceland and Sweden were on the other side of the spectrum.

In a Savvy Tokyo article about battling ingrained sexism in the Japanese workplace, Chiara Terzuolo writes about her experience. Her boss introduced her to a client as “kono one-chan,” or “this girl,” a term used to refer to hostesses. Things like this, though declining, still happen in this country. You can’t help but think that there is a connection between the expectation for women to act sweet and innocent and the way they are treated professionally.

Kawaii culture may be to blame for how this type of sexism is seen as normal here. While other economically steady countries are trying to “grow up” and “leave childish things behind,” Japan still fails to progress in this area. All that cuteness might just not be worth the price.

What are your opinions on Japan’s kawaii? Let us know in the comments.

All You Need to Know About Japanese Cherry Blossoms

Ai Faithy Perez — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 01:00:57 +0000

There are countless songs written and sung about cherry blossoms, as it’s the most important season here in Japan. The time for children to graduate from one grade or school and move on to the next; the moment when your first career begins or you start a new one. Either way, it’s always been the epitome of change. It’s hard to fully comprehend how deeply this time of year resonates with the Japanese people. Perhaps we can embark on that journey by knowing the different types of cherry blossoms and how they are worshipped.

Somei Yoshino

Somei yoshino (ソメイヨシノ) is a natural hybrid cherry of unknown origins. Initially it was believed to be from Nara prefecture. It’s the most popular type of flowering cherry tree in Japan and can be seen nationwide.

Yama Zakura

Yama zakura (ヤマザクラ), or hill cherry is native to Japan, China and Korea and often grows wild in rural areas. The tree is known for its short trunk and is often seen during hanami (花見; get drunk in public under cherry trees) season. In one small town in Akita prefecture, the bark of this type of tree is harvested and used to make items such as tea canisters and chopstick holders in a process known as kabazaiku (桜皮細工).

Oshima Zakura

Oshima zakura (オオシマザクラ) is a beauty originating from the Izu peninsula near the city of Yokohama. Apparently the fruit is edible and the flowers are dried to make tea. The leaves are also used in certain types of cooking, perhaps like basil, as they are very fragrant. It’s also used to make medicine.

Edohigan

Edohigan (エドヒガン)—named after the Buddhist holiday Ohigan (お彼岸; spring and autumnal equinox), celebrated exclusively in Japan. Naturally, its name comes from the tree posing its blossoms on or around the day of the spring equinox.

Shidare Zakura

Shidare zakura (シダレザクラ) has tender branches that stoop down to the earth, as if forever sighing from the weight of their beauty. Sometimes called a weeping cherry, may be more familiar with the weeping willow, its distant cousin.

Yaezakura

Yaezakura (ヤエザクラ) is a type of “double-flowered” (八重咲き; yaezaki) cherry blossom, with up to 300 petals in a single bloom. Some other yaezaki flowers are roses, carnations and camellias.

Kawazu Zakura

Kawazu zakura (カワヅザクラ) has a long blooming period of one whole month, and the flowers open much sooner than the other types of sakura. To the naked eye, it bears a striking resemblance to somei yoshino, except the color of the flower is a darker pink.

Below are just a few recommendations of where you can enjoy most of the kinds of cherry blossoms mentioned above:

Shinjuku Gyoen

10-minute walk from Shinjuku station, open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ¥200 entrance fee.

The park has large grassy areas with over a thousand cherry trees representing dozens of varieties. Shinjuku Gyoen is also popular with the late hanami crowd, as it has quite a few late bloomers.

Ueno Park

Just a couple of steps from Ueno station, park exit. Admission free.

One of Tokyo’s most crowded hanami spots, Ueno Park has over a thousand trees all around the National Museum and Shinobazu Pond. Most of the blossoms are somei yoshino and open a few days earlier than most spots in Tokyo.

Sumida Park (Riverside)

Two to three minutes from Asakusa station. Admission free.

Stretching over a few hundred meters, Sumida Park is alongside Tokyo’s most famous river—the Sumida. This hanami spot is lovely if you fancy a stroll and not just sit picnic-style lounging. It is also lit up at night, giving it a romantic glow that is perfect for post-dinner wooing.

Chidorigafuchi

Kudanshita station. Admission free.

Decorating the moats of the old Edo castle ruins, the hundreds of cherry trees are a sight for sore eyes. Rowboats are available for rent. Kudanshita is also home to the famous Yasukuni shrine, source of annual complaints from Japan’s neighbors every August but a friendly party place during hanami season. There are another thousand or so cherry trees planted in the vicinity.

Rikugien Gardens

Seven minutes from Komagome station or 10 minutes from Sengoku station, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (entry until 4:30 p.m.), ¥300 per person.

This garden is known for its beauty of a tree—the great shidare zakura, or weeping cherry tree. The gardens opened in 1938 and are home to a lovely Japanese Tea House called Gishun-Tei where you can enjoy the traditional tea ceremony rooms for a sum of ¥7,400 for up to five people.

For more of Tokyo’s top hanami spots, click here. Stay safe and keep a distance when visiting these busy areas.

The prettiest season of the year is back! As Japan turns shades of pink, sakura, or cherry blossoms, will surely saturate your social media feeds. For 2021 we want to see how you celebrate sakura whilst social distancing and staying safe from the coronavirus. So instead of heading out to a people-packed sakura spot, tag your best socially distanced sakura-inspired photo or home hanami picnic with #SafeSakura for a chance to be featured on our official SavvyTokyo Instagram!

Not much of a photographer? That’s all good! You can enter our contest with anything sakura-inspired. Share your artwork, makeup looks, sakura styles, relatable videos, or even some fun sakura finds from your local supermarket or conbini with the same hashtag. #SafeSakura We look forward to seeing your amazing submissions, just make sure to stay safe and avoid the crowds!

P.S. Don’t forget to #SavvyTokyo too and join us in representing team Savvy!

A Guide to Japan’s Faux Holidays

Ai Faithy Perez — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 01:00:10 +0000

Have you ever noticed that, out of the blue, all convenience stores are suddenly displaying a vast array of slender pocky boxes, with signboards urging you to buy those additive chocolate sticks because something special is going on? You remind yourself of the date — November 11, or rather, 11/11 — and you make the association: four lines that to many Japanese people look like Pocky sticks — and then you figure, it’s time to celebrate Pocky Day!

Or perhaps you’re shopping for dinner ingredients, same as every day, pondering what to cook tonight, when you notice that all the meat is unusually cheap. Another glance at your smartphone screen – February 9, and you learn it’s Meat Day!

Yes, that’s right, Japan is an innovative country and has an endless list of mysterious made-up holidays — from Cat Day to Vegetable Day and even Natto Day. The correct terminology for these oddities is kinenbi, the Japanese word for anniversary or memorial day, but the English translation doesn’t quite capture the right nuance — so let’s call them “faux-lidays.”

Kinenbi are often the clever product of a play on words, based on how the dates can be read or sound. Though the list is long (and full of oddities), here I’ve handpicked some of my most favorite faux-lidays from the “official” list and compiled them below. Enjoy!

**January 5: Strawberry Day (Ichigo No Hi)**

Starting the year sweet and sour. The world ichi means “one” (or in this case January), while “go” means five. Pronounced together it’s ichigo — the Japanese word for strawberry. On January 5th, invite yourself to a strawberry feast or stroll around the stores for discounted strawberry cakes.

**January 10: 110 (Emergency Number) Day (Hiyaku Toban No Hi)**

The number 110 is the one you want to call in case of emergency. This day serves as a reminder that we need to use the number for its purposes (in other words, don’t dial it if you see a cockroach or need a lift to the convini). It was established by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police in 1985 and it’s common to see Japanese celebrities serving as police “ambassadors” on that day.

**February 1: Aroma Day (Nioi No Hi)**

Again, a play on the numbers, 201 can be read as “ni-o-i,” which is the Japanese word for smell or aroma. It’s the only day in the year when you’ll be excused for reminding your colleague of their body smell (almost). Or you could just celebrate at home with scented candles or room spray.

**February 12: Bra Day (Burajya No Hi)**

On that day in 1914, Mary Phelps Jacob invented the modern bra and now it has made it to the Japanese faux-liday calendar. Wear it or burn it if you wish, but don’t forget to acknowledge it.

**February 22: Cat Day (Neko No Hi)**

Here comes one of the most popular ones: Cat Day. In Japanese, the number two is read as ni or with some stretch of the imagination nya, which is often what young children call cats – nya nya. Triple twos, according to this wisdom, sounds as nya nya nya, and that’s why we celebrate our feline friends on this cold winter day.

**March 3: Ear Day (Mimi No Hi)**

While most people celebrate Hinamatsuri (Girl’s Festival) on this day, some also celebrate … their ears. Double three in this case is read as mi-mi, the Japanese word for ear.

**March 9: Thank You Day (Arigato No Hi)**

Call it the Japanese Thanksgiving. The numbers three and nine are in this case read as “sankyu,” the Katakana version of “thank you.”

**April 6: Castle Day (Shiro No Hi)**

This one’s easy: 4 (shi) and 6 (ro) makes up the Japanese word for castle, shiro. Put it on your Japan-to-do list to visit one of the country’s beautiful castles on that day every year.

**May 3: Garbage Day (Gomi No Hi)**

Be extra careful with recycling on that day, because 5 (go) and 3 (mi) makes up the Japanese word for garbage, gomi, and your neighbors will be watching.

**May 29: Kimono Day (Gofuku No Hi)**

Gofuku is the fabric that kimonos are made out of, and this day Japan celebrates its traditional clothing: 5 (go) 2 (fu) 9 (ku).

**June 4: Bug Day (Mushi No Hi)**

Be extra kind to all living creatures even if you dislike them. Six (read, mu) and 4 (read, shi) make up mushi — the Japanese word for bugs.

**June 9: Rock (n’ Roll) Day (Rokku No Hi)**

Celebrate this in any way you want: from Guns n’ Roses to Eikichi Yazawa, because June 9th is a day to fall in love with the music genre all over again. Six (roku) and 9 (ku) meshed together makes it sound like “rock,” the way the Japanese call Rock n’ Roll.

**July 4: Japanese Pear Day (Nashi No Hi)**

Yes, Japan celebrates America’s independence day by savoring a few cuts of juicy nashi. You get it: it’s “na” for seven and “shi” for four.

**July 10: Natto Day (Natto No Hi)**

You wouldn’t think Japan would go by without a day dedicated to its smelly soul food? Here it is: Seven (na) and 10 (to) equals Japanese stinky beans, natto.

**August 4: Bridge and Chopsticks Day (Hashi No Hi)**

Hashi, written in different kanji can mean both a bridge and chopsticks. What unites them is August 4th when both are celebrated. The roots? Eight is read as ha and four as shi.

**August 6: Ham Day (Hamu No Hi)**

Cheat on your vegetarian diet on this day and add an extra slice of ham on your toast. Another play on numbers, ha for eight and mu for six equals hamu (ham).

**August 31: Vegetable Day (Yasai No Hi)**

August is a busy month for foodies: just a few weeks ago we celebrated ham and now we acknowledge vegetables, or yasai in Japanese, or put that in numbers and it becomes 8 (ya)-3 (sa) 1 (i). We say, just celebrate them all together by making yourself a sandwich at the end of the month.

September 9: Emergency Day (Kyukyu No Hi)

Another day to remind us to be extra cautious and grateful for the health services we have here in Japan, the country acknowledges September 9th as the day of emergency: double 9 (kyu) puts together kyukyu, the Japanese word for emergency.

**September 25: 10-yen Curry Day (Juen Kare No Hi)**

This is currently a Unicef charity event, but in 1971 the famous restaurant Matsumotoro, located in Hibiya Park, was burned to the ground. In order to reopen, Matsumotoro held the 10-yen “Curry Day” where customers would receive free curry for any donations over ten yen. Matsumotoro reopened in 1973, but it kept the tradition to date. If you go to Hibiya Park on this day you will witness the 10-yen curry charity event. All collections have gone to Unicef since 1997.

**September 29: Cleaning Day (Kuriningu No Hi)**

We’re grateful this only comes around once a year. Reading 9 (ku), 2 (ri-ni) and 9 (ku) apparently puts together kuriningu. The best what can happen on this day is to get a discount at your local dry cleaning store. You can go back on March 9 and thank them.

**October 2: Tofu Day (Tofu No Hi)**

After natto, ham and veggies day comes Tofu Day: from 10 (to) and 2(fu). It goes without saying that you know what to cook for dinner on that day.

**October 30: First Love Day (Hatsukoi No Hi)**

On October 30, 1896, Toson Shimazaki, a renowned Japanese author, released a poem named “Hatsukoi”(First love) in a literary magazine representing Meiji era’s romanticism. Since then, Japan has various events, including the First Love Letter Award, going on on this day.

**November 1: Dog Day (Inu No Hi)**

You can’t just have a cat day, things need to be fair. So, this faux-liday was started by the pet food industry in the hopes of spiking sales of dog food. The roots, as you have probably figured out already, go back to 1 (one) 1 (one) 1 (one) – which sounds like wan wan wan, or the way Japanese dogs bark.

**November 8: Good Teeth Day (Iiha No Hi)**

Teeth-whitening services and dentists love this day more than anyone else, because a series of promotions around this time of the year drag people to look in the mirror and ask for a better smile. The day derives from 1 (i) 1 (i) and 8(ha), “ii” meaning good and “ha,” teeth.

**November 11: Pocky Day (Pokki No Hi)**

Put four pocky sticks together and you’ll see what we see: 11/11. A great marketing campaign for Glico, on this day all supermarkets and convinis are flooded with people buying Pocky sticks and taking Insta selfies.

**November 22: Good Husband and Wife Day (Ii FuFu No Hi)**

Perhaps the busiest day for marriages in Japan, this day celebrates good wives and husbands: 1 (i) 1 (i) and 2 (fu) 2 (fu), “ii”, as in Good Teeth Day (above) means “good” and fufu means husband and wife.

**December 7: Christmas Tree Day (Kurisumasu Tsuri No Hi)**

Japan decorated its first ever Christmas tree in a public space on this day back in 1886 in Yokohama. Though still a bit early, the day marks the existence of the Christmas trees in Japan.

**December 31: Cinderella Day (Shinderera De)**

In between tasting your omochi dishes and watching Kohaku, take a moment to also think of Cinderella — like her, we must be home before midnight or we risk wasting the beginning of the year and the magic disappearing.

The list goes on and on. There are one or more events for every single day of the year but every day can be a faux-liday. If you ever come up with your own, share your ideas in the comments — maybe it will be registered…? Have a great year, full of made-up holidays!

Mirai no Mori: Empowering Marginalized Youth In The Outdoors

Ai Faithy Perez — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 09:20:14 +0000

Close your eyes and imagine this: you are five years old and have a mother who lives 20 minutes into town. You see her from time to time on the odd holiday, but you’ve been living in a children’s home since you can remember. One day, out of the blue, your mother shows up clutching a baby. Your pulse quickens – “She’s here to take me home! We are no longer too poor.” Turns out, she’s there to drop off baby number three. Your heart turns to ash.

You spend most of your days hiding from the outside world. You haven’t used words to communicate for so long, you feel as though your tongue is limp. You are safe now, living in a children’s home, but you fight hard to keep from drowning in memories – memories of your parents taking their anger and stress out on you, memories of cold, hungry nights, memories you are desperate to forget.

Now, please, open your eyes. What you just imagined, although fictional, is the hidden reality for still too many children in Japan. There are approximately 30,000 children institutionalized in care homes across this country all with heart-wrenching stories to tell. Mirai no Mori, an accredited NPO based in Japan, has been breathing life, hope and healing back into these children’s lives since 2013.

Mirai No Mori’s Story

Mirai no Mori (literally, “the future forest”) was co-founded in 2013 by Dave Paddock and Jeff Jensen, along with Kozue Oka, the executive director. Operating mostly in the Kanto and Tohoku regions, they work tirelessly to infuse their various outdoor programs with the life-changing experiences that these children struggle to find in their daily lives.

The issue that Mirai no Mori focuses on in all their programs is to remedy the limited opportunities children in those institutionalized homes have for learning life lessons through experience. Due to the limited ways the institutions operate, the children do not have enough opportunities to make decisions individually, nor challenge themselves in a safe environment, a place where they can be themselves, or having a hand to hold when in need.

Mirai no Mori strives to create this environment through various programs that can provide just that. Exposing the children to the idea that they can feel safe to display their true selves and learn more about who they are, eventually leads to building confidence and self-actualization.

Mirai No Mori’s Programs

The organization’s various programs can be broken up into four main categories of events – summer camps, winter camps, LIT (Leader In Training) programs and Back to Nature programs.

Summer Camp

Surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Japan, the “campers” (aged 6-16) spend four or five days following a carefully constructed curriculum such as camping, outdoor cooking, hiking and bonfires. Learning how to communicate in English with “leaders” (dedicated volunteers and staff from around the globe) and peers is also weaved into the program, giving the “campers” a chance to practice the English they learn at school.

One rather unusual activity they repeat annually is one that fills the “campers” with excitement, but also boosts their self-confidence and gives them the chance to come out of their shells. The “leaders” and “campers” combined go on a short hike following a river that eventually leads to a small waterfall. At the fall, the children are encouraged to jump off the top. If they are unsure or afraid to do so, they can find their favorite “leader” and jump together. Those that cannot bring themselves to jump on the first year often try again at the next opportunity, but all go home with just a bit more hope that there are people who really do care for them.

Winter Camp

Packed to the brim with exciting new experiences, the winter camps are much like the summer camps, in the sense that they are planned with care and consideration. For some “campers” it may be their first time to see snow, but for all, it is an adventure overall. Activities such as night hiking, sledding and snowshoeing take place along with mini-science classes about winter.

One “camper” who attended a winter camp said, “My dream was to work in an ice cream shop but now I would like to be a LIT participant, eventually becoming a Mirai no Mori staff, to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So I decided to do my best to learn English from now on.”

Leader In Training (LIT) Program

Launched in the summer of 2014, this program is designed for those 16-18 years of age, who want to gain further understanding of what it takes to be a leader, helping younger future “campers” have a safe and unforgettable experience. Along with learning new survival skills and facing a designated challenge (such as a 16-km hike on their own), LIT participants aim to improve their work skills, English ability and personal character growth all in the hopes that this will contribute to making a smooth transition to adult life.

One of the main reasons Mirai no Mori focuses on high school students is that they are essentially forced to “graduate” from their care homes when they turn 18, and have to learn to survive on their own. Thus the LIT program is designed to fast-track them to develop some of the basic skills that will become essential in order to integrate into society – such as, communication, organizational skills, human-relation skills, and the mindsets needed, resilience and flexibility.

Back to Nature Program

Also launched in 2014, this program encourages participants to learn a little bit more about the world they live in. Through hands-on projects like reforestation and river cleaning, the children gain knowledge and experience with “how to give back.” And when the time comes for them to do so, the often undervalued individuals feel needed and come to realize that they have a meaningful role to play in society.

Get Involved

If you have considered “giving back” yourself, below are some of the few ways you can play a part in the growing not-for-profit charity, Mirai no Mori.

Volunteer to be a “leader” at camps
Donate towards their programs
Become a corporate sponsor
Become a fundraising organizer
Support the Mirai no Mori through graphic design
Become a translator
Use your skills to build the NPO’s social media
Provide them with outdoor equipment

And last, but not least, there is a wonderful summer party hosted by Mirai no Mori at New Tomorrow Café in Minami-Azabu on June 29, 2018, welcoming all who are interested to know more about the organization and its work.

Details of Mirai no Mori’s Summer Party 2018

A post shared by Mirai no Mori (@mirainomori) on May 30, 2018 at 2:08am PDT

Date: Friday, June 29, 2018
Time: 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
Location: New Tomorrow Cafe, 4-6-1 Minami-azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: 5 min. walk from Hiroo station
Cost: ¥6,000 (early bird till June 18) / ¥7,000 (after June 19). Includes food, drinks, and a small donation. All payments will be collected in cash at the door.
Dress Code: Casual
Registration: By Monday, June 25th. Register here: http://bit.ly/2018SummerParty-Registration

For cancellations and general inquiries contact Mirai no Mori at info@mirai-no-mori.jp (by Monday, June 25th). For more information on Mirai no Mori’s work, check their official website.