November in Japan is a season wrapped in warmth — not just from cozy autumn sweaters or the rich colors of turning leaves, but from something deeper: gratitude.
It’s a time when the Japanese people pause to reflect, appreciate, and give thanks — to nature, to hard work, and to one another. From the family dinner table to the snack aisle, this spirit of appreciation can be felt everywhere.
One of the most meaningful expressions of this gratitude is Labor Thanksgiving Day (Kinrō Kansha no Hi), celebrated each year on November 23rd. While it might sound similar to Thanksgiving in the United States, Japan’s version carries its own unique history and customs — deeply rooted in agriculture, community, and respect for effort.
From Ancient Harvest Rites to Modern Appreciation
The story of Japan’s Labor Thanksgiving Day begins long before modern holidays existed.
In ancient Japan, the emperor performed a Shinto ceremony called Niiname-sai (新嘗祭) — a ritual to thank the gods for the year’s harvest and to taste the newly harvested rice for the first time.
This connection between food, gratitude, and divine blessing runs deep in Japanese culture, reminding people that every grain of rice is the result of many hands and much effort.
After World War II, Japan officially established Labor Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday. The focus shifted from the emperor’s ritual to a national day of gratitude for all forms of work — from farmers and factory workers to office employees and teachers.
It’s a celebration of human effort, cooperation, and the unseen labor that sustains daily life.
Even today, Niiname-sai is still performed privately at the Imperial Palace, while families across the nation enjoy a quiet day of rest, reflection, and togetherness.
The Everyday Heroes Behind Japan’s Snacks
At Freedom Japanese Market, we think a lot about gratitude.
Each month, as we prepare our Japanese snack boxes, we’re reminded that behind every package lies a chain of dedicated workers:
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The farmers who grow the rice and vegetables used in traditional snacks.
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The factory teams who perfect recipes, bake crackers, and package sweets.
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The designers and artists who make snack packaging bright and fun.
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The postal workers who help bring these snacks from rural Japan to homes all around the world.
It’s easy to enjoy a crispy senbei (rice cracker) or a creamy Pocky stick without thinking about the people who made it possible. But in Japan, November encourages us to slow down and give thanks — not only for the food but for the effort behind it.
That’s what Labor Thanksgiving Day is all about: recognizing that our comfort and happiness are built on the work of others.
How Japan Says “Thank You” — Through Snacks!
One of the sweetest (and tastiest!) ways that gratitude shows up in Japan is through snack culture.
In November, many Japanese stores feature “thank you” gift packs — small assortments of treats that you can give to coworkers, teachers, or friends. These packs often include:
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Arare (あられ) – bite-sized rice crackers, sometimes shaped like maple leaves or autumn colors.
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Yatsuhashi (八ツ橋) – soft cinnamon mochi from Kyoto, often given as a seasonal gift.
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Manju (まんじゅう) – fluffy cakes filled with sweet bean paste, beautifully wrapped with “ありがとう” (thank you) messages.
These aren’t extravagant gifts; they’re simple, heartfelt tokens of appreciation. The act of giving snacks in Japan carries the same warmth as saying “thank you for your hard work.”
That’s why you’ll often see special packaging in November with words like “感謝” (kansha – gratitude) or “ありがとう” (arigatou – thank you) printed in elegant calligraphy.
Even large snack brands release limited-edition autumn flavors — like roasted sweet potato, chestnut, or kinako (roasted soybean flour) — to celebrate the season’s bounty and warmth.
Gratitude and the Art of Sharing
If there’s one thing Japanese culture teaches us, it’s that gratitude isn’t just a feeling — it’s an action.
Whether through a bow, a thoughtful phrase, or a shared snack, saying “thank you” connects people.
This is part of why our Freedom Japanese Market snack boxes are so special.
Each box is a reflection of that same spirit of giving — a small piece of Japan’s appreciation culture sent across the ocean.
Every item in the box has been hand-picked by our family in rural Japan with one simple rule:
“If we wouldn’t send it to our friends and family, we won’t send it to our customers.”
When you open your box, you’re not just tasting Japan — you’re tasting the work, care, and gratitude of everyone who made it possible.
A Season for Reflection and Thanks
In Japan, November often feels quieter. The fireworks of summer are long gone, and the excitement of New Year’s still feels far away.
But that quietness gives space for reflection. It’s the time of year when families sit around warm kotatsu tables, share cups of green tea, and enjoy snacks made from the autumn harvest — roasted chestnut treats, mushroom rice crackers, or maple-shaped cookies.
In many ways, November’s Labor Thanksgiving Day isn’t just a national holiday; it’s a reminder of the rhythm of Japanese life — the cycle of work, harvest, rest, and appreciation.
Whether you’re in Japan or abroad, it’s a message that resonates:
Gratitude connects us all.
So, as we celebrate the season of thanks, take a moment to appreciate the hands that made your favorite snacks — and maybe share a few with someone you’re thankful for.
Celebrate Gratitude with Freedom Japanese Market
At Freedom Japanese Market, we love celebrating the heart of Japan through snacks.
Every month, we carefully select seasonal Japanese treats that showcase the creativity, craftsmanship, and gratitude behind Japan’s food culture.
If you want to experience the spirit of November — with flavors of roasted sweet potato, chestnut, and autumn spice — our November snack box is the perfect way to do it.
Each box comes with:
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A full-color snack guide in English and Japanese
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Allergen information for every snack
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Free Japanese culture bonus item
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Full international tracking and worldwide shipping
It’s a taste of Japan’s warmest season of thanks, sent straight to your door.
👉 Subscribe today at FreedomJapaneseMarket.com
and experience the true flavor of gratitude — one snack at a time.