The Winter ’26 Edit: Tokyo Comes to Tysons + More You Need to Know
Hey there, friend!
Can we talk about how brutal these gray winter days can feel? I get it – January and February are the months where we all need a little extra something to break up the monotony. Well, I’ve got just the thing for you.
Remember when I said I’d share the cool stuff I find around town? Well, buckle up because I just discovered something that literally transported me to Tokyo – and it’s right here in Tysons Corner.
Discovery of the Winter Season
Marufuji Japanese Market opened in January at Tysons 3 Center, and folks, this place is the real deal. We’re talking 18,000 square feet of authentic Japanese products, and I’ve been going back weekly because I’m officially obsessed.
Why you need to check this out:
Let’s talk about the produce section first, because it completely changed how I think about vegetables. Every single item is treated like a work of art – red peppers individually wrapped in cellophane and tied with precision, bok choy nestled in protective bags. The quality is absolutely top-tier, and you can tell they care about every detail. I’ve never had vegetables last so long or taste so fresh.
But here’s where it gets even better – this isn’t just a grocery store. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with row after row of Japanese snacks you didn’t even know existed (hello, entire wall of Kit Kat flavors). The seafood section is stunning – fresh uni from Maine or Hokkaido, Japanese bluefin tuna, Hokkaido scallops. They’ve got wagyu beef that’ll make you weep, and their prepared foods section is my new go-to for “I don’t feel like cooking” nights.
And then there’s everything else:
A whole section dedicated to Japanese skincare, beautiful dishes and serveware, textiles that make you want to redecorate your entire home, and the most gorgeous cards and stationery. I walked in for groceries and walked out with vegetables, a face mask, the prettiest ceramic bowl, and three Kit Kat flavors I’d never tried. It’s dangerous in the best way.
The 48-seat café is worth the trip alone. I tried the oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl), and it was comfort food perfection. They also serve fresh cream puffs from Hokkaido, Ogawa Coffee from Kyoto, and they do live demos – keep an eye out for their whole-tuna-cutting demonstrations.
The insider scoop:
Yes, some items are pricey (we’re talking imported specialty goods), but the prepared foods and produce are totally reasonable and SO worth it. I’ve been meal-planning around what I find there, and honestly, those perfectly wrapped vegetables have me cooking more at home. Pro tip: Go on a weekday if you can – weekends still draw massive crowds. And grab one of their free samples while you’re browsing!
Where: 8520 Leesburg Pike, Vienna (Tysons 3 Center)
Hours: Daily, 9am-9pm
Best for: Japanese food lovers, anyone who appreciates quality ingredients, people who love discovering beautiful homeware, or anyone who wants to feel like they took a mini-trip abroad
STYLE WITH SOUL: WMP Eyewear
Speaking of discoveries – can we talk about sunglasses that actually give back? I’ve partnered with WMP Eyewear because they’re doing something I believe in: combining quality, style, and purpose.
Every pair purchased supports Arizona animal rescues – they’ve donated over $150,000 to fund life-saving surgeries and treatments for rescue animals. They’ve provided 110,000+ cans of food to shelters, helped dogs like Saint get life-saving Valley Fever treatment, and given countless forgotten pets a second chance at finding their forever homes.
My current obsession? The Astra frames in black cherry. They are truly over the top in the best possible way – sophisticated, bold, and they elevate literally every outfit. I also love the Dakota frames (that winged browline is everything), but they’ve also got modern aviators, classic squares, and bold statement pieces.
Designer quality without designer prices + helping animals = a total win. When you wear WMP, you’re not just accessorizing – you’re saving lives.
Check out WMP Eyewear here – https://www.wmpeyewear.com?bg_ref=oe2lXBZwxn
WHAT ELSE I’M LOVING THIS WINTER
Currently Reading: The Postmistress of Paris by Meg Waite Clayton
Podcast on Repeat: Huberman Lab The Huberman Lob podcast by Andrew Huber, Ph.D., a neuroscientist talks about our brain and its connections with the human body.
Random Thing Making Me Happy: The fact that spring is only a month away, and I’m already planning my next local adventure. Got any suggestions? Hit reply and let me know what hidden gems I should check out next!
Before You Go…
Thanks for being here and reading along on my winter wanderings. Whether you’re discovering new spots around town, supporting brands with purpose, or just looking for something to break up the February blahs – I hope this gave you a little inspiration.
Have you been to Marufuji yet? What did you think? And what local spots should I explore next? I love hearing from you!
Stay curious,
Marie Leiter
P.S. If you know someone who’d love discovering unique local spots or purpose-driven brands, forward this their way! They can subscribe at here.