Ozoni: Discover Japan’s Unique New Year Soup Traditions!

There are various types of traditional inns (ryokans) in Japan, but those that take pride in their cuisine are especially wonderful for their exceptional meals. If you stay during New Year’s, you’ll often be served the local specialty ozōni soup for breakfast—an experience you definitely shouldn’t miss!

This particular ryokan, located in Akiu Onsen, about 30 minutes by car from Sendai City, is well-known even among international visitors. Not only are its facilities impressive, but the food is also delicious, earning it high praise.

At this ryokan in Kyoto, their ozōni is a traditional Kyoto-style dish made with white miso and round mochi. It’s perfect for anyone looking to savor an authentic ozōni passed down through Kyoto’s rich history. When making your reservation, it’s a good idea to confirm whether ozōni will be served, just to be sure.

Preparing ozōni can feel like a bit of a hassle, especially when it comes to sourcing all the ingredients. The flavor of ozōni is heavily influenced by the quality of the broth, which can be tricky to make just right. If you want to try making it the easy way, retort packs that come with pre-prepared ingredients and broth are highly recommended. How about trying a set that includes both Kagoshima and Tokyo (Edo) styles?