The holiday season is a time for wonder and joy as sparkling snow transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Twinkling lights and holiday markets bring the excitement of gathering with loved ones next to the warmth of a fireplace as we enjoy a festive meal and open colorfully wrapped gifts. 

Kokoro Care Is Delivering The Joy Of Winter In Japan

Winter in Japan brings its own sense of cheer and togetherness. Whether celebrating the season at an end of year bonnenkai party, visiting a snow covered shrine to welcome in the New Year or gathering with family and friends to enjoy the tastes of the traditional Japanese New Year’s meal of osechi ryori, each special moment is highlighted by the local foods and drinks.

A Special Curation Of Locally-Made Artisanal Foods

Kokoro Care is delivering that same magic with our first ever 2024 Advent Calendar. Each day you’ll discover a delightful and delicious artisanal treat while going on a journey through the wonders of Japan’s culinary landscape. Ranging from sweet to savory, and everything in between, we’ve curated a selection of locally-made sweets, snacks, beverages, soups, and seasonings to suit every taste, making our Advent Calendar the perfect gift this holiday season.

Beyond Japanese Snacks

Through this festive countdown, you’ll explore new flavors, textures, and ingredients as you surprise your senses all December long. One day may begin with an aromatic cup of citrus yuzu green tea fresh from a 4th generation family-run tea farm in Kagoshima. Or a chewy gummy made from sweet and tangy Japanese mandarin oranges known as mikan. You may warm up with a hearty bowl of instant Japanese soup filled with regional vegetables and an umami-rich broth, or snack on a sesame treat made from local black sugar and roasted soybeans.

Every tasty treat is accompanied by a thoughtfully written English label that lets you know what the product is, what makes it special and where in Japan it comes from. We also connect you to the local farmer and producer that hand-crafted it. A list of ingredients, dietary information and simple instructions when needed, make every product easy to enjoy no matter your skill level or dietary preference. You’ll also share the joy of supporting small businesses, as our products are made with natural, locally sourced ingredients using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Limited Edition Packaging

Our aesthetically pleasing packaging is designed with discovery in mind. The outside of the calendar box is adorned with expert illustrations of Japan’s iconic imagery including majestic Mt. Fuji, colorful kimonos, towering shrine gates, and elegant koi fish, creating a whimsical winter wonderland with a uniquely Japanese feel. Inside, each small door depicts a piece of Japanese tradition, whether it’s a cast-iron tea pot, an elegant Japanese fan, or a hot spring-loving snow monkey, every day offers an opportunity to be closer to Japan. 

More Than A Present, It’s An Experience

Give new life to the nostalgic tradition of advent calendars and make this holiday season memorable! Perfect for the foodies, world travelers, or Japan lovers in your life, this advent calendar is much more than just a present, it’s an experience. With each new day comes the opportunity to embrace the excitement of opening a gift, connecting with Japanese culture, and indulging in authentic treats passionately produced by our small batch farmers and producers. And if along your journey you fall in love with one of the products, many are available for purchase on the Kokoro Care website. There you can also find our extensive curation of artisanal Japanese foods, informative blog posts, easy-to-follow recipes, and so much more!

Celebrate the season and share in the traditions as you embark on this 24-day journey through the tastes of Japan this winter. With each carefully chosen item, we hope to bring you closer to Japan, its people, and those around you as you reconnect to the joy of sharing a snack, sweet, or meal with loved ones. 

From our kokoro (heart) to yours, we wish you a happy holiday and a healthy new year!

ORDER YOUR [LIMITED EDITION] 2024 Advent Calendar: Journey Through The Tastes Of Japan