Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on December 2013

The Japanese tradition of nengajo (New Year’s cards) is also a diplomatic way to recognize that not everyone celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza or Festivus. It’s practical, too: one card with best wishes for the year to come has you and your family covered. Now they’re also fun. These 3D Nanoblocks postcards contain one card filled with tiny, Lego-like blocks for the receiver to build little New Year’s-themed display pieces. They’re also good for entertaining kids, avoiding family blowups associated with the holidays, and expanding your festive decorations, all at the same time. Available in specific 2014 Year of the Horse or generic shishimai (lion) and kadomatsu (New Year’s pine decoration) sets (¥1,260 each).
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