Did you know that New Year is the most important holiday in Japan? While Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn leaves, New Year, or shogatsu, is a time when family, tradition, and renewal are celebrated.
Let’s take a look at the unique customs, history, and traditions that make the Japanese New Year truly special.
The History of New Year in Japan
New Year in Japan is all about fresh starts, good luck, and connecting with family. It wasn’t always celebrated on January 1. Before 1873, Japan used the lunar calendar, and New Year’s Day was celebrated at a different time. It aligned with the Chinese New Year. However, Japan switched to the Western calendar during the Meiji Restoration, which moved the celebration to January 1.
Even though the date changed, the heart of the celebration stayed the same. In Japan, many people believe gods—or kami—visit homes during New Year, blessing families with happiness and prosperity. To welcome these divine visitors, families clean and prepare their homes. This tradition of cleaning before New Year’s is called osouji.
New Year celebrations in Japan last from January 1 to January 3—but the preparation starts much earlier. During this time, families visit each other, reflect on the past year, and set new intentions.
Special New Year Traditions in Japan
The Japanese New Year is filled with meaningful customs and rituals that have been passed down for generations. Here are some of the most important traditions.
1. Omisoka (New Year’s Eve)
December 31, known as omisoka, is a day for preparation and reflection. Families thoroughly clean their homes to start the new year fresh. It’s also common for people to resolve old disputes, pay off debts, and tie up loose ends.
On the evening of omisoka, families enjoy a quiet meal together, often eating toshikoshi soba, or buckwheat noodles. The long noodles represent a wish for a long, healthy life, and eating them helps to leave behind the hardships of the past year.
2. Joya no Kane
As the New Year nears, Buddhist temples in Japan hold a special event called joya no kane, where monks ring a temple bell 108 times. The number 108 represents the earthly desires that cause suffering. Each ring of the bell is believed to wash away these desires. This makes the new year a fresh start. The sound of the bell creates a peaceful atmosphere that fills the air.
Image Source https://mykyotomachiya.com/joya-no-kane/
3. New Year Decorations
Japanese homes are decorated with symbols of good fortune during the New Year. Some of the most common decorations include:
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Kadomatsu: A decoration made from pine, bamboo, and plum branches placed at the entrance. Each plant has a meaning: pine represents long life, bamboo stands for strength, and plum blossoms symbolize renewal.
By the way, Kadomatsu can also be a wonderful housewarming gift. Want to know how it connects to other Japanese gift traditions? Take a look at our blog on Traditional Japanese Housewarming Gift Ideas.
- Shimekazari: A wreath made from straw and paper, often decorated with fruits, placed on doors to protect homes from evil spirits and welcome good fortune.
- Kagami Mochi: A stack of rice cakes with a bitter orange on top, used as an offering to the gods for prosperity and family unity.
4. Otoshidama: Gifts for Children
A fun and exciting tradition during New Year is otoshidama, where adults give children small envelopes filled with money. This tradition is much anticipated by kids, and the envelopes are often colorful and decorated to celebrate the season.
5. Hatsuhinode: The First Sunrise
Watching the first sunrise of the year, called hatsuhinode, is an important tradition for many Japanese people. It’s believed that the first sunrise brings good luck and energy for the new year. People gather on mountain peaks, beaches, or even rooftops to witness this special moment.
6. Hatsumode: The First Shrine Visit
In the first few days of January, millions of people visit Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to pray for happiness, health, and success in the new year. These visits are called hatsumode. Popular shrines, such as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, are filled with people during this time, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
Image Source: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3002.html
Tasty New Year Foods
No celebration is complete without delicious food, and New Year in Japan has many special dishes. One of the most popular is osechi ryori, a collection of food served in tiered lacquered boxes. Each dish has a symbolic meaning. Some examples include:
- Kuromame (black soybeans): Symbolizing health and hard work.
- Kazunoko (herring roe): Representing fertility and prosperity.
- Datemaki (sweet rolled omelet): For knowledge and learning.
- Tazukuri (candied sardines): For a good harvest.
Other foods enjoyed during New Year include mochi (sticky rice cakes) and zoni (a soup with mochi). These foods are both delicious and meaningful.
Tips for Visiting Japan During New Year
The New Year season in Japan is a time of celebration, with many traditional events and practices. Below are some helpful tips for making the most of your trip during this special time.
- Plan Ahead: Public transport can get very crowded as people travel to their hometowns. It’s best to book tickets and accommodations early.
- Check Schedules: Many businesses close during the New Year, but shrines, temples, and shops offering New Year sales remain open.
- Embrace the Culture: Join in on traditions like hatsumode and try some local dishes to fully experience the holiday.
Final Words
New Year in Japan is a beautiful mix of tradition, food, family, and fun. It’s a time to reflect, celebrate, and welcome a fresh start. Whether you’re watching the first sunrise, ringing in the New Year with temple bells, or enjoying a delicious meal, the Japanese New Year is a truly special experience. Embrace the joy and culture, and discover the magic of this holiday.
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