Winter Solstice in Japan: Traditions, Rituals and Tea Culture

The Winter Solstice in Japan

How It Is Observed — and Why Tea Matters

 

Today is the winter solstice,

the longest night of the year.

In Japan, this day has been recognised for centuries as an important seasonal turning point.

Rather than marking it with celebration or ceremony, people have traditionally observed the winter solstice through quiet, practical actions — small rituals that support the body and calm the mind.

 

Warming and restoring the body

One of the most well-known Japanese customs on the winter solstice is the yuzu bath.

People place whole yuzu citrus fruits into hot bathwater, allowing their fresh, sharp aroma to fill the steam.

The warmth helps improve circulation, while the citrus scent is believed to refresh the senses and prevent winter colds.

More than symbolism, this practice reflects a very practical mindset:

the coldest period of the year is approaching, and the body needs warmth and care.

 

Food follows the same logic.

Traditionally, people eat pumpkin (kabocha) on the winter solstice.

Pumpkin is rich, naturally sweet, and nourishing — a seasonal vegetable that provides energy and strength during winter.

These customs are not about indulgence.

They are about preparing the body to endure the season ahead.

 

Slowing the rhythm of daily life

Equally important is what people do not do on this day.

The winter solstice has long been considered a time to avoid excess:

no rushing, no major decisions, no unnecessary effort.

Instead, people are encouraged to:

• return home early
• spend time quietly with family
• rest more than usual

It is a day to pause — to allow both nature and the human body to reset.

 

This attitude reflects a core aspect of Japanese culture:

living in harmony with natural cycles rather than resisting them.

 

The role of tea on the winter solstice

Within this context, tea naturally becomes part of the day.

Tea in Japan has always been more than a beverage.

It is woven into everyday life as a moment of pause — a way to settle the breath and bring awareness back to the present.

On the winter solstice, preparing tea takes on a deeper meaning.

The act is slow:

water is heated carefully,

steam rises quietly,

hands warm around the cup.

In winter, teas with depth and umami — such as Gyokuro — are especially valued.

Their softness and richness support the body, while their calm, lingering taste invites stillness.

Drinking tea on this day is not about stimulation.

It is about restoration.

 

A quiet invitation

At Kanoa Tea, we see the winter solstice not as a concept to explain, but as a moment to experience.

Warm the body.

Slow the mind.

Take a pause.

One cup of tea is enough.

In that stillness, the season begins to turn —

and light slowly finds its way back.