Osechi Ryori; Japanese New Year Cooking!
Marie Moore
In Japan, the most important holiday of the year is New Years! Whereas Japanese employees and students don't really get any vacation during holidays like Christmas, at New Years all companies, schools and shops shut (apart from convenience stores, those N E V E R close) for several days and most people go home to their families. They watch New Year's specials on TV, visit shrines and temples and of course EAT!
So, what do they eat? Many may know about the fresh mochi people eat at New Year but the main food attraction is Osechi! The appearance of Osechi is almost like a Japanese snack crate, with several layers of food presented neatly in a box. Osechi became popular around the Heian period of Japan (794-1185) and since then people have continued eating it!
But what kind of food is in it? The types of food actually vary greatly depending where you buy it, or if its home made then of course the chefs preferences, but but generally Osechi contains foods that represent positive things like good fortune for the New Year. Though these dishes are of course traditional and may be considered weird Japanese food by some, but Osechi can contain things like; Datemaki (sweet rolled omelet with fish paste) representing a wish for auspicious days, Kamaboko (fish cake) representing celebration, Kuromame (black soybeans) representing health and so on.
Now with so many Japanese people buying/ordering Osechi from stores every year, it's big money. And unlike a snack crate you get every month this bad boy only comes once a year, so people pay big bucks! It's no wonder kawaii character companies like Sanrio are trying to rake in on the cash too by releasing this Hello Kitty Osechi for preorder!
You get two layers of delicious Osechi treats like the aforementioned datemaki and kameboko, as well as some sweet treats! All with added Hello Kitty cuteness in the mix!
You even get a special Osechi Hello Kitty bento box it comes in which you can keep forever! If you live in Japan then you can pre-order this Hello Kitty Osechi from now until the 10th of December here on Sanrio's online store. If you live outside of Japan, why not try making your own special Osechi foods!
What do you think of Osechi? Do you have similar New Years or special celebratory foods in your country? Let us know in the comments!
Keep up with all fun foodie news coming out from Japan by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Want to get a FREE Japanese candy box? Check out how to get one here!
Related articles
January 2025 Calendar: Five Cool Events in Japan!
If you plan to kick off 2025 in Japan, you’re in for a treat. January is one of the most exciting months to visit, packed with events that mix tradition, culture, and cutting-edge creativity.
Train Stations in Japan: Five Cool Ones to See!
Japanese train stations showcase innovation and tradition, from distinctive underground platforms to idyllic views. Let’s explore the five most iconic ones and uncover their stories!
Voice Acting? Five Unique Professions for Foreigners in Japan
In this article, we will cover five unique professions in Japan for foreigners, including some that might surprise you, like voice acting!
Randoseru: The Authentic Japanese Backpack!
If you have ever been to Japan, you have likely spotted a randoseru or two. These durable, boxy backpacks are a signature piece of Japanese childhood and can be seen strapped to the backs of elementary school students nationwide. But what exactly is this, and why is it important in Japanese culture? Let us unpack...
Sumida Aquarium: Five Awesome Places for Marine Fun!
Let’s explore the best aquariums in Japan, starting with the incredible Sumida Aquarium, and see why these spots are perfect for your next aquatic adventure!
Holiday Snacks from Japan: Best Ones to Try in 2024!
While Christmas may not be a national holiday per se, there’s no lack of festive cheer in Japan at Christmastime. And as the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing better than enjoying delicious holiday snacks.