A Belated Yuzu-yu Bath

In Japan, there's a custom of taking a yuzu-yu bath on the first day of winter. This tradition dates back to the Edo period, and it was believed that taking a yuzu-yu bath would help prevent catching a cold during the winter season.

During this time of year, many supermarkets stock fresh yuzu, a citrus fruit known for its refreshing scent and health benefits. The largest producer of yuzu in Japan is Kōchi Prefecture, which accounts for approximately 52% of the country's total yuzu production.

Although I’ve seen yuzu in many supermarkets, I forgot to buy some. As a result, I haven’t had my yuzu-yu bath yet. But tonight, I’m finally going to enjoy my belated yuzu-yu bath, two days after the first day of winter.

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A Japanese Wanderer, Tsukubu — Tasting the Poetic Beauty of Japan and Beyond

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