What Japanese New Year’s Eve noodle dish symbolizes crossing from one year to the next?

Toshikoshi soba is the Japanese New Year’s Eve noodle dish that symbolizes crossing from one year to the next.

The name means “year-crossing soba.” People traditionally eat the buckwheat noodles on Ōmisoka, the final day of the Japanese year. Their long, thin shape is commonly associated with longevity, while the noodles’ easy-to-cut texture can symbolize leaving behind the difficulties of the old year.

Recipes vary by region and household. Toppings may include green onion, tempura, fish cake, or other ingredients, so there is no single national serving style.

Toshikoshi soba should not be confused with osechi ryōri, the collection of special foods eaten around New Year’s Day, or with toshikoshi udon. The defining feature of this custom is soba, a noodle made primarily from buckwheat.