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The 5 Best Value-for-Money Food Fukubukuro

New Years in Japan means one thing: fukubukuro (lucky bags)! Stock up on tasty treats with our favorite lucky bags for foodies and even save a few yen in the process.

The Origin of the Maneki Neko

The Maneki Neko, literally the "beckoning cat,"is a very common Japanese figurine. Although there are several possible stories behind its origin, the one revolving around Gotokuji Temple probably has the most veracity to it.

Bring in the New Year with Cute Kit Kat Boxes

With three cute box designs and adorable individual wrappers, this is the best way to send wishes for a lucky New Year.

Imperial Bonsai Ready for New Year

Imperial Household Agency gardeners are preparing traditional potted plants that will be used as decoration in the New Year period.

15 Unique Festivals Only Found in Japan

There are a variety of interesting festivals in each prefecture of Japan throughout the year.

New Year’s Food in Japan

Travel to Japan to taste New Year’s specialties and ensure success for the following year.

How to Replace the Paper on 'Shoji' Doors

'Shoji' sliding doors are emblematic of traditional Japanese houses. But it's frustratingly easy to put a hole in the paper. When you're tired of patching, how do you just replace the whole thing?

Ring in the New Year at Tokyo Disneyland!

Visitors can stay up and party all night in the happiest place on Earth on New Year's Eve 2018!

Unique Ways New Years 2020 Was Celebrated

New Years in Japan is steeped in traditions, but there was more than one way to celebrate the coming of the new decade.

When You Wish Upon a Pun

There’s a special reason why Japanese people offer ¥5 coins at temples and shrines.

Special Marathon Cars Coming to Yamanote Line

To promote the yearly college marathon, Hakone Ekiden, special edition train cars will be featured on the JR Yamanote Line in Tokyo.

Japanese Tradition of Scaring Kids Continues!

Men dressed as demons scare children in northeastern Japan to discourage them from being lazy.

14 Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Japan

It's a tradition to watch the sunrise on the first day of the year in Japan. And the nation's national parks offer countless breathtaking options for both sunrise and sunset at any time of year!

Annual Firefighter Ceremony Heats Up Tokyo

Tokyo firefighters take part in a yearly ceremony to mark the official start of duties in the New Year, much to the crowd's anticipation and delight. And we've got the thrilling video of the exercises.

Ring in the Year of the Boar with Krispy Kreme

Glitzy red and gold decor, plus boar and snowman shapes. These donuts will start your year off sweet!

Get Lucky with Starbucks' New Years Drink

It’s all about fortune and fun for the first New Year of Reiwa!

Toshikoshi Soba: New Year's Eve Noodles

One of Japan's longstanding traditions is to eat buckwheat noodles on New Year's Eve. But why are they so important? Read on to find out!

Do's & Don'ts: Japanese New Year

Ringing in the New Year in Japan is an awesome experience, but it does come with some unique challenges. If you're going to be here over the winter holiday, find out what to expect!

Best 2021 Year of the Ox Holiday Card Designs

Sending cards to celebrate the New Year is a long-held tradition in Japan, and Spoon & Tamago is bringing you some of their favorite designs to ring in the Year of the Ox.

9 Cleaning Supplies from the ¥100 Store

These inexpensive products are perfect for your New Year's cleaning!

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