Shōgatsu in Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Celebration
New Year, or Shōgatsu (正月), is one of Japan’s most exciting holidays! It’s a time for family, friends, and fresh starts. While January 1st marks the official celebration, the days leading up to it are packed with fun customs and traditions that make it extra special.
Welcoming the New Year
Before January 1st, people start preparing by doing Ōsōji (大掃除), a big, deep clean to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune. Homes are also decorated with kadomatsu (門松), which are pine, bamboo, and plum branch decorations that invite friendly spirits to bring good luck.
A popular tradition is sending nengajo (年賀状), New Year’s postcards, to friends, family, and co-workers. These cards, often featuring the zodiac animal of the upcoming year, arrive on January 1st, symbolizing good relationships for the year ahead.
New Year’s Eve: Family, Food, and Bells
On New Year’s Eve, called Ōmisoka (大晦日), families gather to enjoy a special meal. A favorite dish is toshikoshi soba (年越しそば), long buckwheat noodles that represent a long life. As midnight approaches, many people head to temples for the Joya no Kane (除夜の鐘) ceremony, where temple bells ring 108 times to cleanse people of the 108 earthly desires, according to Buddhist belief. This ringing is thought to purify the mind and spirit for the New Year.
The First Shrine Visit: Hatsumōde
After the bells ring in the New Year, many people visit a shrine for Hatsumōde (初詣), the first shrine visit of the year. They pray for good health, happiness, and success. Many also purchase omamori (お守り), which are lucky charms meant to protect them in the year ahead.
New Year’s Day: Feasting and Fun
New Year’s Day is celebrated with a family feast called osechi ryori (おせち料理), which includes various symbolic dishes. For example, black soybeans (kuromame 黒豆) symbolize good health, and herring roe (kazunoko 数の子) represents prosperity and many children. Another traditional dish is ozōni (お雑煮), a soup with rice cakes (mochi), and its recipe varies by region.
For kids, New Year means otoshidama (お年玉), when they receive small envelopes filled with money from parents and relatives. This tradition adds a fun and exciting element to the celebrations for younger family members.
Why New Year in Japan is Special
New Year in Japan isn’t just about fun; it’s also about reflection and renewal. The customs—from cleaning the house to visiting shrines—are all about starting the year fresh and full of hope. These traditions bring families closer and help everyone feel excited about the future.
With a perfect blend of old traditions and new beginnings, Shōgatsu in Japan is a meaningful holiday that celebrates family, community, and the promise of a bright year ahead. Whether it’s eating special food, sending postcards, or listening to temple bells, New Year in Japan is truly special.
