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Osechi Cuisine 2026: Unveiling Insights from the Latest Survey

As we approach the New Year, Osechi, Japan's traditional New Year cuisine, continues to evolve, reflecting changing household dynamics and economic conditions. Cookpad Inc., Japan's leading recipe-sharing platform, conducted the 2026 Osechi Cuisine Awareness Survey, revealing important insights into how families plan to prepare Osechi for the upcoming celebration.

Key Findings from the Survey

In a nationwide poll conducted from October 31 to November 4, 2025, with 721 respondents, the survey sought to understand people's attitudes towards Osechi, including preparation methods, budgeting priorities, and trending dishes. Here are some of the significant findings:

Handcrafted or Purchased?

More than half of the participants indicated that they plan to make at least part of their Osechi at home. Specifically, 34.1% favor a hybrid approach, where they will make some dishes while purchasing others. Meanwhile, 16.4% plan to buy all their Osechi, underscoring a growing preference for convenience in food preparation. Only 8.6% committed to making everything from scratch, highlighting the trend toward balanced preparation methods that cater to busy lifestyles.

The 15,000 Yen Barrier

A striking observation is that over 50% of respondents wish to keep their Osechi budget under 15,000 yen (approximately $100), reflecting a broader sentiment around economic restraint. Notably, 67% reported they plan to maintain the same budget as the previous year, suggesting an inclination towards saving rather than overspending. Despite the rising cost of living, 14.6% expressed a willingness to increase their spending, indicating a divided outlook on holiday spending.

Popular Dishes for 2026

When it comes to what dishes people are eager to prepare in 2026, the top three selections highlight preferences for traditional flavors:
1. Chikuzen-ni (Braised Chicken and Vegetables)
2. Western-style Desserts (including Sweets)
3. Kuro-mame (Sweet Black Beans)
These selections emphasize a desire to blend traditional and modern tastes while ensuring some flavor familiarity.

Presentation Trends

Interestingly, the survey found that more people prefer to serve Osechi on large plates instead of traditional tiered boxes, with 40.4% opting for open platters. This shift signifies a move towards more contemporary dining styles, aligning with the trend of less formal, more inclusive family gatherings, especially in light of Japan's changing family structures.

The Communal Table

When asked whom they typically share their Osechi with, 52.1% indicated they dine with only their immediate family, while gatherings with extended family are becoming less common, making up only 22.4%. This trend reflects a notable cultural shift where smaller, immediate family units choose to celebrate without the traditional large family gatherings often seen in Japanese culture.

The Art of DIY

Survey participants highlighted a preference for making Osechi that tailors to personal tastes: 83.9% prioritize customizing the flavor profiles of their homemade dishes. Moreover, the trend leans toward creating only a few items from scratch — over 70% plan to make between one to six dishes, indicating that while home cooking is cherished, people prefer to keep it manageable.

Looking Forward

As we approach 2026, individuals express a growing desire for flexibility in dish selection. Over 54.8% of those surveyed articulated a preference for having the freedom to choose their favorite Osechi items, reinforcing the trend of personal taste over tradition. This aligns with rising economic considerations where many seek affordable yet delicious options tailored to their households’ preferences.

In conclusion, the results from the 2026 Osechi Cuisine Awareness Survey suggest that Japan's traditional New Year dishes are evolving alongside modern values and economic realities. Ultimately, it reflects a shift towards personal preference and practicality, a sentiment that Cookpad aims to support with an array of diverse and budget-friendly recipes. Whether you are looking for a simple Chikuzen-ni recipe or easy instructions for kuro-mame, Cookpad strives to assist individuals in creating a New Year’s feast that suits their unique style and budget.