Doraemon celebrates New Year’s Eve in Spain: an emotional tribute to our traditions
In one of its most emotional specials in recent years, Doraemon dedicates an entire episode to Spain and one of its most beloved customs: the twelve New Year’s Eve grapes. The episode acts as a bridge between cultures, showing how the end-of-year celebration can unite people from different places through common values such as hope, new beginnings and the importance of shared traditions.
The decision to focus on Spain —and specifically on Madrid— reflects a gesture of appreciation toward the Spanish-speaking audience. The result is a tribute filled with respect, affection and a faithful representation of Spanish customs.
Puerta del Sol, recreated with detail and accuracy
One of the episode’s strongest features is the recreation of Puerta del Sol. The clock, the crowded square, the lights, the anticipation before midnight and the festive atmosphere are portrayed with surprising detail, creating an authentic and emotionally resonant setting.
For Spanish viewers, seeing Doraemon, Nobita and the rest of the cast in such a familiar location evokes nostalgia and pride. The series not only recreates an iconic place but also captures the emotional spirit of December 31st.
The story: a cultural journey full of humor and emotion
The episode begins with Nobita falling asleep and missing the New Year celebration in Japan. To ensure he doesn’t lose the magic of the moment, Doraemon suggests traveling to a country where it is still December 31st. That place is Spain.
When they arrive in Madrid, they meet a young Spaniard who is preparing to take part in the tradition of the twelve grapes. After an accident ruins his grapes, Doraemon and Nobita help him and, in the process, learn the meaning behind the custom. Through dialogue, humor and unexpected situations, the episode shows how New Year’s Eve is truly celebrated in Spain.
The story also draws a parallel between the Spanish grapes and the Japanese Toshikoshi soba, highlighting how cultures can celebrate the same moment in different but equally meaningful ways.
A tribute that moves and respects tradition
This special has been warmly received for several reasons:
- It portrays Spain accurately and without stereotypes.
- It creates a strong emotional connection, especially for those who grew up watching the series.
- It explains the Spanish tradition naturally and without simplifying it.
- It shows how anime can unite cultures and respectfully share customs.
The message is clear: traditions become universal when they are shared.
Audience reaction and social conversation
After its release, social networks filled with comments, images and messages of appreciation. Many Spanish viewers expressed how emotional it was to see their culture represented in such an iconic anime. There was also interest from Japanese viewers curious to learn more about the grape tradition.
The episode sparked international conversation and connected audiences from different countries through a simple yet symbolic custom.
More than a special: a bridge between cultures
This Doraemon episode proves that animation can connect different worlds through small stories. By presenting a Spanish tradition in a Japanese context, the series celebrates cultural diversity and highlights the value of appreciating customs from other countries.
It serves as a reminder that although every culture celebrates the end of the year differently, all share the same desire: to begin a new cycle with hope, enthusiasm and good wishes.
