New Year’s in Japan, celebrated from January 1st, is a special period filled with traditions and cultural activities. It is a time for family gatherings and for reflecting on the past year while welcoming the new one. Below is an overview of Japanese New Year’s customs and practices.
Overview of Japanese New Year
In Japan, New Year’s (called “Oshōgatsu”) is one of the most important holidays. The first three days of January, known as “Sanganichi,” are particularly significant, and most businesses and schools are closed. During this period, people participate in various customs and ceremonies to pray for health, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
Preparations for New Year
House Cleaning (“Ōsōji”)
At the end of December, people thoroughly clean their homes to get rid of bad luck and welcome the New Year with a fresh start.
- New Year Decorations
Traditional decorations like kadomatsu (pine and bamboo arrangements) and shimenawa (sacred straw ropes) are placed at the entrance of homes to invite the Shinto deity of the New Year (Toshigami-sama).
New Year’s Food
Osechi Ryōri
This is a special set of dishes served in colorful lacquered boxes (jubako). Each dish has a symbolic meaning, such as good health (black beans), prosperity (herring roe), or long life (shrimp).
- Ozoni
A soup containing rice cakes (mochi), with ingredients and flavors varying by region and household. It symbolizes good fortune and togetherness.
New Year’s Activities
- Hatsumōde
This is the first shrine or temple visit of the year, where people pray for health and happiness. Many also draw omikuji (fortune slips) to see their fortune for the year. - Nengajō (New Year’s Cards)
It is customary to send New Year’s greeting cards to friends and family. These cards are designed to arrive precisely on January 1st and include messages of good wishes. - Otoshidama (New Year’s Money Gift)
A favorite tradition among children, otoshidama involves giving money in decorative envelopes to younger family members as a New Year’s gift.
Traditional New Year’s Games and Pastimes
- Hanetsuki
A badminton-like game played with a paddle (hagoita) and a shuttlecock. - Kite Flying (“Takoage”)
A fun activity typically enjoyed in open spaces with children and families. - Fukuwarai
A humorous game where blindfolded players arrange facial features on a blank face, often resulting in comical outcomes.
Modern New Year Celebrations
In recent years, many people spend New Year’s relaxing at home or traveling. Watching special TV programs or participating in New Year sales (hatsu-uri) are also popular modern ways to celebrate.
Japanese New Year’s is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. It is a time to cherish family ties, reflect on the past, and embrace the opportunities of a new year. For visitors, experiencing New Year’s in Japan offers a fascinating glimpse into its rich culture and seasonal spirit.
