When it comes to ringing in the New Year, Japan knows how to throw a celebration like no other!
From serene temple visits to delicious food and quirky traditions, the Japanese way of welcoming the new year is full of charm, history and excitement.
If you’re planning to visit Japan during this magical time, buckle up because you’re in for a fascinating cultural ride!
New Year Celebration in Japan
1. Oshogatsu
In Japan, New Year’s Day (Oshogatsu) is the most important holiday of the year. It’s not just about fireworks and partying until dawn. It’s a time for families to come together, reflect on the past year, and look forward to new beginnings.
While the festivities begin on January 1st, the build-up starts way earlier, with many shops and public places closing for a few days to allow everyone to spend time with loved ones.
2. Joya-no-Kane
Ever heard of ringing in the New Year with a bit of noise? In Japan, this tradition is marked by the sound of temple bells ringing 108 times at midnight on December 31st. The belief behind this is that each chime symbolizes the 108 earthly desires that cause suffering.
With each toll, people purify their spirits and prepare themselves for a fresh start. It’s a serene and almost meditative experience that reflects Japan’s deep connection to spirituality.
3. Hatsumode
One of Japan’s coolest traditions is Hatsumode, the first visit to a shrine or temple in the New Year. Just picture thousands of people, bundled up against the winter chill, lined up at shrines, eagerly waiting to pray for good health, happiness, and prosperity.
It’s a fantastic mix of spirituality and socializing, with food stalls lining the streets selling treats like Taiyaki (fish-shaped waffles filled with sweet red bean paste) and oden (a hearty winter stew). Popular shrines like Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine see millions of visitors during this time, so expect a lively, bustling atmosphere.
4. Kakizome
If you’re a fan of calligraphy, you’ll love Kakizome. This tradition involves people writing their first characters of the year (often a hopeful or lucky phrase) using a calligraphy brush. Schools, homes and even offices partake in this tradition, adding a splash of ink and creativity to the New Year’s vibe. It’s a beautiful way to start fresh with a clean slate.
5. Osechi-Ryori
One of the highlights of New Year’s in Japan is Osechi-Ryori, a special set of dishes prepared for the occasion. These traditional foods are not only delicious but symbolic. For example, Kuro-mame (sweet black beans) represent good health, Kazunoko (herring roe) symbolizes prosperity and Tazukuri (dried sardines) is meant to bring a good harvest.
The idea is to start the year with abundant blessings. While many of these dishes are beautiful to look at, they’re also made to be enjoyed with family and friends over several days, making the whole experience a joy to savor.
6. The Year-End Countdown and Bonenkai Parties
Now, while Japan is all about tradition, there’s plenty of modern fun too. Before the big day, people celebrate with Bonenkai (year-end parties), where friends, coworkers and families gather to bid farewell to the past year.
These parties are often filled with laughter, delicious food, karaoke and maybe a bit too much sake. Think of it as a “see ya later” to the old year before diving into a fresh start.
7. Shimekazari
You’ll notice colorful decorations like Shimekazari adorning doorways during the New Year’s season. These are traditional wreaths made from rice straw, often adorned with a mix of sacred items like pine branches (symbolizing longevity), plums (representing prosperity) and oranges (for happiness).
The Shimekazari is believed to ward off evil spirits and invite good luck into the home. It’s not just a decoration; it’s a sign of a new beginning and a wish for a prosperous year ahead.
8. Fukubukuro
Ready for some post-New Year shopping? Japan’s version of a “bargain hunt” is the Fukubukuro or “lucky bags.” These mystery bags are filled with random goodies sold at a fraction of their value. They’re a big deal in Japan, with shoppers eagerly queuing up outside their favorite stores to grab one.
The excitement comes from the surprise inside – maybe you’ll find clothes, gadgets, or even gift cards. It’s a fun way to start the year with a little fortune and a lot of excitement!
9. Toshikoshi Soba: The Noodle Tradition
As part of the festivities, families enjoy a bowl of Toshikoshi Soba on New Year’s Eve. These buckwheat noodles symbolize longevity and the shedding of bad luck.
The long noodles are said to represent a long, healthy life, while their ability to be easily cut symbolizes letting go of the past year’s troubles. It’s a simple yet meaningful meal that wraps up the year and sets the stage for a fresh start.
10. The New Year’s Day Parade of Cultural Events
If you’re lucky enough to visit Japan on New Year’s Day, make sure to check out the New Year’s Day Parade. With floats, dancing, and traditional performances, this event showcases the vibrant cultural side of Japan.
Depending on where you are, you might catch performances of traditional lion dances or taiko drumming. It’s a feast for the eyes and ears, full of energy and joy.
11. New Year’s Cards
In Japan, sending New Year’s cards, known as Nengajo, is a huge tradition. These postcards are filled with well wishes and are sent out to friends, family and coworkers.
One cool thing about Nengajo is that many people include the zodiac animal for that year (based on the Chinese zodiac), so it’s a fun way to learn about the year’s symbolic animal. People often make sure to mail them early enough so they arrive on January 1st.
12. Kohaku Uta Gassen
If you’re into music, then you won’t want to miss Kohaku Uta Gassen, the annual New Year’s Eve music show. This highly popular TV event features the best of Japanese pop, rock, and traditional music, with male and female artists split into two teams that compete against each other.
The show has been a New Year’s Eve staple for decades, and it’s a perfect way to catch a taste of the country’s music scene while snuggled up in the warmth of your hotel or ryokan.
13. New Year’s Day Sumo
For fans of sports, New Year’s Day in Japan often features sumo tournaments. On January 1st, sumo wrestlers gather to showcase their strength and agility in the ring, with special events held to mark the occasion.
Watching these athletes compete in their traditional attire is an unforgettable experience, and it’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Japan.
14. Nagamochi
While Osechi-Ryori is the savory highlight of New Year’s meals, you can’t forget about the Nagamochi, a type of sweet rice cake. These chewy rice cakes are typically filled with sweet red bean paste and are enjoyed throughout the New Year’s season.
The process of making them is often a family affair, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends and loved ones. The soft texture and subtle sweetness will definitely have you hooked!
15. New Year’s Decor: Kadomatsu and Shimenawa
If you walk through the streets of Japan during the New Year period, you’ll notice some beautiful Kadomatsu (pine decorations) placed at doorways. These are set up to welcome the Toshigami-sama, the New Year’s god, into the home.
The Kadomatsu is traditionally made with pine, bamboo, and plum branches, each symbolizing longevity, strength and new beginnings. Additionally, Shimenawa (a sacred straw rope) is often tied around trees or doorways to ward off evil spirits and bring in good fortune. These decorative touches add a special charm to the festivities.
16. Shogatsu Games
In addition to eating and praying, Japanese people love playing traditional New Year’s games. One of the most popular is Kendama, a toy that involves catching a ball on various parts of a wooden spike. It sounds simple, but it’s surprisingly challenging and fun for people of all ages.
Hanetsuki, a Japanese version of badminton, is another game enjoyed during the New Year. The goal is to keep the shuttlecock (made of feathers) in the air as long as possible without letting it touch the ground.
17. Toshiko
In some parts of Japan, there’s a fun tradition called Toshiko, where people dance traditional New Year’s dances. These dances are often performed in groups and are meant to bring prosperity and good luck.
While it’s not as widespread as other traditions, if you’re lucky enough to visit rural parts of Japan, you might get to experience it firsthand. It’s a joyful way to celebrate community, family, and the spirit of renewal.
18. First Sunrise: Hatsuhinode
There’s something magical about the first sunrise of the year in Japan. Known as Hatsuhinode, many people wake up early on New Year’s Day to witness the first light of the year. It’s believed that seeing the first sunrise brings good fortune and health.
Some head to the mountains, beaches or temples for the perfect view, while others simply watch from their windows. The serene quietness of this moment makes it a special way to begin the year.
19. Mochi Pounding
If you’re in Japan in the lead-up to New Year’s Day, you might be lucky enough to witness the traditional mochi-pounding ceremony. Families gather to pound glutinous rice into a sticky, dough-like consistency, which will later be shaped into round mochi cakes.
This is a fun and community-based activity, with people taking turns using large wooden mallets to pound the rice. The mochi is a staple food during the New Year’s season, and it’s often enjoyed in soups or as sweets.
20. Happy New Year
Finally, don’t forget to embrace the Japanese custom of “Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu” (Happy New Year). Unlike the usual New Year greetings you might be used to, this phrase is said to everyone you meet during the first few days of the year. It’s a wonderful way to share positive vibes with those around you and spread a little joy.
Conclusion
Japan’s New Year celebration combines ancient customs with contemporary flair, creating an unforgettable cultural experience. Whether you’re marvelling at the beautiful calligraphy, diving into Osechi-Ryori or enjoying a peaceful moment at a temple, each moment offers a unique taste of Japanese life.
If you’re planning to visit Japan during this festive season, don’t forget to embrace the spirit of renewal and good fortune, it’s an adventure you won’t forget.
Ready to kick off your year with a little Japan-style magic?
It’s time to say, “Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu!”
FAQs =》
Q1. When is New Year celebrated in Japan?
Ans. New Year or Oshogatsu, is celebrated from January 1st to 3rd. However, preparations begin in late December, and the festive atmosphere lasts for a few days after New Year’s Day.
Q2. Can visitors participate in New Year traditions in Japan?
Ans. Visitors to Japan can participate in various New Year traditions, such as visiting shrines for Hatsumode, trying traditional foods like Osechi-Ryori and Toshikoshi Soba or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere of the season.
Q3. Is everything closed during the New Year in Japan?
Ans. Yes, many businesses, restaurants, and shops close for the first few days of the New Year to allow people to spend time with their families. However, some tourist attractions, shrines and department stores may remain open, especially for the New Year sales.
Q4. What is the significance of the first sunrise of the year?
Ans. The first sunrise of the year, known as Hatsuhinode, holds great significance in Japan. It’s believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Many people wake up early on January 1st to witness the sunrise from a scenic spot or at a temple.
Q5. What is the meaning of Kadomatsu decorations?
Ans. Kadomatsu are traditional New Year decorations placed outside homes to welcome the Toshigami-sama (the New Year’s god). They’re made with pine, bamboo, and plum branches, each symbolizing different blessings, such as longevity, strength and prosperity.
