Soba Day and "Misoka"

Soba Day (そばの日) is marked at the end of every month and celebrates Japan’s long‑loved buckwheat noodles. The tradition highlights soba’s cultural role as an everyday food, a celebratory dish, and a symbol of longevity. 

But the anniversary on January 31st holds more significance because it coincides with "Misoka Shogatsu".  In Japan, misoka refers to the last day of the month, and January 31st carries a special meaning in some regions as 晦日正月 (Misoka Shōgatsu) or 晦日節 (Misoka‑setsu). It is a “closing New Year” that marks the final boundary of the extended New Year season. Month‑end soba (三十日蕎麦 / misoka soba) is eaten as a ritual of renewal.

Many regions and noodle associations promote soba on this day, encouraging people to enjoy handmade varieties and support local producers. The photo in this post is of a soba dispensing vending machine!