Hi, it’s been a while. As December begins, it feels unbelievable that 2025 is already coming to an end. In Japan, the New Year season is filled with many traditional customs that continue to be cherished today. One of the most iconic traditions is eating Osechi, a special assortment of dishes enjoyed from New Year’s Day through the first three days of January. Each item in osechi has a symbolic meaning that expresses hopes for good fortune in the coming year. For example, Kuromame represent the wish to live diligently and health. The origin of osechi goes back to the belief in Toshihami-sama, who brings blessings for the new year. People prepared special foods as offerings to welcome this god into their homes. Over time, these offerings evolved into the osechi meals families share today. Another reason for preparing it is related to an old custom, it was considered bad luck to use fire and for cooking during the New Year’s holiday. To avoid cooking and and to allow families . Especially those who handled household work to rest, people made dishes in advance that could last for several days. Because of these traditions, osechi continues to be more than just food, it is a way to honor the New Year, celebrate family, and appreciate the hopes carried into the coming year.