The winter solstice (tōji) is observed with yuzu-yu, bathing in hot water infused with yuzu citrus fruits. The practice dates to the Edo period, when public bathhouses began offering yuzu baths on the solstice. The fragrant oils were believed to ward off colds and evil spirits during the darkest and most yin-heavy day of the year. Families also eat kabocha (winter squash) and foods containing the syllable ’n’ for good luck. The solstice marks the turning point where yang energy begins its return, a moment of cosmic renewal celebrated across East Asian traditions.