Tokyo’s Nihonbashi district is getting festive with the arrival of the New Year, thanks to the Mie Terrace, which is hosting a special event from December 27 to January 5. This year, as Christmas wraps up, the anticipation for the New Year begins, creating the perfect opportunity to pause and prepare for the celebrations with local delicacies.
Beginning December 27, Mie Terrace will feature various specialties from Mie Prefecture, making it the ideal place to gather everything needed for New Year’s festivities. With traditional foods such as Akafuku mochi available exclusively during this time, shoppers are encouraged to stop by and take advantage of these seasonal offerings. "This time of year brings special offerings from Mie, perfect for New Year's preparations," said a spokesperson for Mie Terrace.
The event will last until December 30, presenting visitors with a splendid array of delicacies ranging from New Year’s soba to traditional Ise shimenawa, and even the famed Matsusaka beef roast. One highlight includes the sale of Akafuku mochi. Alongside this famous local sweet, shoppers can also find white and black mochi, allowing for a festive touch to any New Year's table. The vibrant red and white color scheme is believed to bring good fortune, making it the perfect addition for the celebrations.
On the first floor, shoppers will encounter festive products ideal for New Year’s celebrations, where dishes featuring grilled Matsuzaka beef and sweet simmered ayu (a sweetfish) stand out. Mie, recognized for its culinary delights throughout the year, presents ayu sweetfish as one of the rich elements of its New Year’s traditions. These beautifully prepared fish, simmered with sansho pepper seeds, are among Mie Terrace’s signature dishes, enhancing the New Year’s culinary experience.
Visitors can also take part in unique opportunities such as the exciting ‘Red and White Good Fortune Set’ from January 2 to 5, crafted for just 50 meals. This special dish features South Ise Town’s premium tuna and sea bream sushi, grilled Matsuzaka beef, and specially made ozoni (New Year’s soup), creating a culinary delight just for the New Year.
No New Year’s celebration is complete without good fortune, and shoppers at Mie Terrace have a chance to partake through shopping lotteries. Discounts and special lucky bags ranging from 500 yen to 10,000 yen will be available, packed with delightful local flavors such as snacks and Ise tea. "This year's lucky bags promise great deals with assortments of Mie's unique products," noted the Mie Terrace representative, highlighting the offerings available for visitors.
The Mie Terrace is not only about food but also showcases Mie’s rich culture, including special exhibitions promoting the region’s famed sword traditions leading up to the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo. Through these events, Mie Terrasse aims to educate visitors about its historical significance and culinary prowess.
Experiencing the end of the year and the beginning of the New Year at Mie Terrace is not just about shopping and dining; it’s about enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Nihonbashi decorated for the holidays. Visitors can anticipate the allure of the season and find everything they need for splendid New Year’s preparations under one roof.
So, why not indulge this festive season at Mie Terrace? With its rich collection of traditional and delicious offerings, it stands as the perfect spot to gear up for the New Year festivities with family and friends. Don’t miss out on the local specialties and the chance for good fortune this New Year!
Location: Mie Terrace, 2-4-1 Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo; Operating Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (some periods may have shortened hours).