It’s December, and Winter Solstice is around the corner. Though Winter Solstice or Toji (冬至) isn’t an official festival in Japan, it’s widely celebrated as a tradition.⁠

This special day is considered to be a lucky day in Japan, so if luck hasn’t been on your side lately, be patient as this day may bring change in your favour!⁠

To celebrate Toji, locals enjoy a relaxing Winter Solstice Yuzu Bath (ユズ湯), where baths are prepared using the Japanese citrus fruit called Yuzu. It is also common practice to visit Yata-dera Temple where they serve boiled pumpkin. At this time of the year, you may be greeted with a gigantic pumpkin set in front of the temple’s main hall. Visitors will normally rub the pumpkin and say a prayer for good luck before enjoying the boiled pumpkin dish.⁠

For the perfect hearty dessert this winter, head over to @papajonscafe for the famous New York cheesecake. While most people would not imagine Kyoto to be a destination for this classic American dessert; locals have dubbed this place as one of their favorites when they’re craving an authentic slice!⁠

Photo by @udon_soba_log

A cold winter’s day is best accompanied with comforting food from Matsuba. Known for the Nishin Soba, this simple but delicious dish is typically cooked with herring fish in sweet soy sauce accompanied with hot soba. ⁠

For New Year’s Eve, try out this local delicacy accompanied with Toshikoshi Soba or better known as the “year-crossing noodle” to symbolize a long and healthy life. Located just 15 minutes walk from our hotel – it’s the perfect place to have your dinner before celebrating the New Year!⁠