In Japan's New Year's Eve celebrations, toshikoshi soba symbolizes crossing from the old year into the new. The name literally refers to “year-crossing” buckwheat noodles, and many people eat the dish on December 31 as part of the year's closing customs.
The noodles are associated with several auspicious ideas. Their length can suggest longevity, while their easy-to-cut texture is often linked with leaving behind the hardships or difficulties of the past year. Buckwheat is also valued for its resilience, giving the food an additional symbolic association with strength and recovery.
Recipes differ by region and household. The noodles may be served in a hot broth with ingredients such as scallions, tempura, fish cake, or egg. Toshikoshi soba is distinct from the 108 temple-bell strikes and from the elaborate New Year's dishes eaten during the first days of January.