Japan's winter is a warm and welcoming world of seasonal dishes, scented drinks and nostalgic flavours served from street carts. As the air chills, Japanese kitchens and convenience stores bustle with time-tested foods that have been enjoyed for centuries. From hearty broths to citrus teas, winter in Japan is not just a season; it is a way of eating.
Oden: Japan’s Ultimate Winter Comfort Dish
Nothing screams “Japanese winter” like a pot of Oden bubbling away. This slowly boiled one-pot meal consists of daikon radish, soft-boiled eggs, konjac, tofu, fish cakes and many more local specialities. Each element soaks up the umami-packed waters, resulting in food that is as cosy as it is nourishing. From food stalls, convenience stores, to izakayas, Oden’s straightforward preparation and immersive flavours make it a winter classic.
Nabe: The Heart of Japanese Home Cooking
Winter means “nabe season” in the Japanese home. Nabe (short for odenabe, literally “rice pot”) is a range of hot-pot dishes prepared and eaten at the table—an emblem of unity. Popular variations include:
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Shabu-shabu - ”Think meat slices cooked rapidly in hot broth.
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Sukiyaki – a sweet and savoury soy sauce hot pot
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Yosenabe - (A combination of seafood, meat, tofu, and vegetables).
Warm, interactive, and healthy, nabe is more than food—it’s an experience of bonding and comfort.
Yuzu Tea (Yuzu Cha): A Cup of Winter Wellness
Humanised output Winter is also citrus season, with the fragrant yuzu in particular in abundance. Yuzu tea, a combination of yuzu peel and honey, is a calming beverage with a fresh scent and a high concentration of vitamin C that helps strengthen immunity. Hot Fact: This type of tea is a home and café staple during the chilly season, warming the soul with its naturally sweet and tart flavour.
Winter Street Foods: Simple, Warm, and Irresistible
Don't miss out on the following during your winter walk in Japan:
- Yaki-imo (roasted sweet potatoes) – Soft, caramel-like sweetness
- Nikuman – Steamed buns filled with seasoned pork
- Taiyaki – Fish-shaped cakes with fillings like red bean, custard, or chocolate
These handheld delights offer quick warmth and comfort—beloved by locals and travellers alike.
Seasonal Sweets and Treats
Winter brings limited-edition flavours across Japan:
- Strawberry shortcake during Christmas celebrations
- Matcha and chocolate winter treats
- Mochi-based snacks, especially during New Year festivities
Japanese winter desserts perfectly balance tradition and indulgence.
Why Japan’s Winter Food Culture Is Special
Japan’s winter cuisine isn’t just about warmth — it’s about celebrating the season. Each dish has
- Tradition — Rooted in festivals, regional customs, and old recipes.
- Seasonality — Fresh winter ingredients like yuzu, daikon, and seafood.
- Community — Whether around a nabe pot or at a street stall.
When the temperatures fall, it’s food that unites people.