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As a melting pot in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is home to many Asian Americans. Japanese traditions are still practiced, including praying at temples, making mochi, and having Yakudoshi parties. These festivities mark the beginning of an unlucky age in life and are meant to ward off bad luck. Modern Yakudoshis usually feature an abundance of Hawaiian food shared by family and friends. If you’re planning a Yakudoshi for a loved one, here are a few ways to incorporate Japanese culture into the party.

How to Incorporate Japanese Culture Into a Yakudoshi

1. Provide Lucky Party Favors

Be sure to give your guests lucky charms so that they can also protect themselves from any bad luck in the upcoming year. It’s custom for the celebrant to cut open a large steamed bun to reveal many little tiny buns inside, which they then pass out to party goers to bestow good luck. However, you could also present guests with a small omamori, which is a small, flat talisman or amulet that contains a prayer and meant guide or protect. Omamoris are beautiful favors that can be kept in wallets, purses, or on a shelf at home.

2. Create an Inspired Ambiance

Hawaiian foodA Yakudoshi can be a small family affair held at a tea house or a large celebration in a banquet room. Use symbolic decorations found at most Japanese celebrations, like bronze bells, paper colorful lanterns, origami, and bamboo, to decorate the area. You can also provide kimonos for the main family and a lucky red shirt or lei for the celebrant.

3. Serve Authentic Food

Celebrating with an abundance of food and drink is a crucial part of any festivity. Hire a caterer that specializes in Japanese and Hawaiian food to offer guests local favorites while paying homage to the Asian culture. As the Yakudoshi begins, consider serving a few authentic appetizers, like tempura, sashimi, and mochiko chicken.

 

If you’re planning a Yakudoshi and want to serve authentic Japanese appetizers with a Hawaiian food buffet, turn to Four Sisters Kitchen Catering in Wailuku, HI. This family-owned catering company serves local Hawaiian food, like beef stew and chicken long rice, as well as Japanese favorites, including yakitori chicken and fish tempura. View their menu online, or call (808) 242-1135 to speak with a caterer about your event.

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