We would like to introduce national holidays and some cultural traditions every month.

January 1 is called ganjitu (元日).  It is the day to celebrate the coming of the New Year.  most Japanese regard New Year’s Day as the most important national holidays.  As the old proverb says, “it is the day to make new plans for the year (一年の計は元旦にあり）,” and start afresh with a new state of mind.

Until the end of the Second World War, everyone celebrate becoming one year older on New Yea’s Day regardless of their real birthday.  Most Japanese rest during the first three days of the New Year and many companies and schools are closed for a one week or more during this season.

You can experience various kinds of traditional custom and events during this season.  We believe you will definitely enjoy New Year in Japan!

January 15th News, NILS Japanese language school.