Japanese Life: How to Spend and Enjoy New Year's

In Japan, New Year's has unique customs and traditions that you can experience. Many people staying in Japan for study or work look forward to celebrating Japanese New Year.

However, for those experiencing it for the first time, changes in store hours and closures might be confusing.
This article introduces events and ways to enjoy the New Year, as well as things to do before the New Year, for foreigners living in Japan.

📗 Japanese National Holidays and Annual Events

What is Japanese New Year?

In Japan, January 1st marks the beginning of the new year. New Year celebrations are about welcoming the new year safely and wishing for a peaceful year ahead.

The period from January 1st to January 3rd is called "Sanganichi(三が日)," during which many businesses are closed. Depending on the calendar, many companies close from around December 29th to January 3rd. Some even extend their holidays to January 5th.

After Christmas, New Year decorations like "Kadomatsu(門松🎍)" start appearing everywhere.
Many people clean their houses to welcome the new year pleasantly.

On New Year's Day, stores hold "Hatsuuri(初売り)" (first sales), and people on holiday create a lively atmosphere. The New Year’s mood is unique and eagerly awaited by many every year.

Enjoy New Year's Traditions

Japanese New Year has various traditions unique to this period. Some are family-based, while others are open to everyone. Here are some New Year's customs that anyone can easily participate in.

Visit a Shrine for Hatsumode

Hatsumode(初詣) is the first shrine or temple visit of the new year. Generally, people visit between January 1st and January 7th, though some regions extend it to January 15th.

People pray for health and a peaceful life for the coming year. Some visit a nearby shrine, while others travel to famous shrines like "Ise Shrine(伊勢神宮)" in Mie or "Meiji Shrine(明治神宮)" in Tokyo, which are crowded with visitors.

Not Sure How to Pray at a Shrine?

Many shrines have explanations about how to pray, so you don't need to worry too much about the procedures. During Hatsumode, many people are praying, so you can observe and follow their example.
For those who want to learn more, the Jinja Honcho website offers explanations and videos.
🔗 神社本庁　参拝方法

Year-Crossing Visit (Toshikoshi-mairi) and Two-Year Visit (Ninen-mairi)

Some people visit shrines close to midnight on December 31st. This is called Toshikoshi-mairi (year-crossing visit) or Ninen-mairi (two-year visit). It’s a unique way to experience the New Year’s atmosphere in Japan. Make sure to dress warmly.

Good Luck Items at Shrines

Shrines sell various good luck items besides amulets, such as protective talismans and decorative arrows to bring health and peace for the year. If you find something you like, consider purchasing it. These items should be placed in a high position within your home. Small talismans can be carried in your bag.

Enjoy Osechi and Ozoni

On New Year's, special dishes called "Osechi" and "Ozoni" are enjoyed.

Osechi(おせち)

Osechi is a dish eaten with the hope of living healthily and safely for the year. It is served in a square box called "Jubako," and each dish has a meaning. Osechi is sold in smaller portions at supermarkets and convenience stores. Individual items like "Kamaboko" and "Datemaki" are also available, so you can try specific dishes if you prefer.

Ozoni(お雑煮)

Ozoni is a soup-like dish containing mochi, meat or fish, and vegetables. It is considered a lucky dish enjoyed during New Year's. The ingredients and timing of eating Ozoni vary by region and family.
There are various types of Ozoni across Japan, so if you have Japanese friends, consider asking them to make it for you.

Enjoy Hatsuuri (First Sales)

Hatsuuri refers to the first sales of the New Year held by stores. Many stores hold Hatsuuri between January 1st and 3rd, offering special deals and lower prices.
Stores also sell "Fukubukuro" (lucky bags) containing various items. These bags usually contain items worth more than their price, making them a great deal. Many people line up early to buy these bags.
Fukubukuro are available for clothing, household goods, food, and more. Trying one might add to your New Year's enjoyment. Many stores now offer reservations for Fukubukuro.

Tips for Spending New Year's in Japan

New Year's brings a different schedule to Japan. Especially during Sanganichi (January 1st to 3rd), many companies, city offices, and banks are closed.
Places you plan to visit might be closed, and you might not be able to complete necessary procedures.

City Offices and Banks Closure

City offices and bank counters are closed from around December 29th to January 4th. Complete any necessary procedures at city offices or banks by around December 15th. The Immigration Bureau also follows similar closure schedules.
During bank closures, some ATMs in banks and post offices may not be available. If you need cash, withdraw it early. Banks and post offices get busier as the year-end approaches, so expect longer waiting times.

Closure of Stores Selling Daily Necessities

Recently, many supermarkets and drugstores are closed on January 1st. Some also close or shorten hours on December 31st.
In December, stores usually display notices about their holiday hours. If your usual supermarket will be closed, stock up on a few days’ worth of food in advance.
Convenience stores often remain open during the New Year, so you can rely on them if needed.

Hotels and Public Transportation Get Busy

Hotels, inns, trains, and buses get very busy around the New Year. Many people travel or return to their hometowns, making reservations difficult.
If you plan to travel or return home during the New Year, book early.
Also, expect higher prices than usual during the year-end and New Year period. Traveling at other times may be cheaper and less crowded.

Conclusion

New Year's is a special time in Japan to celebrate the new year. There are unique decorations like Kadomatsu 🎍and special foods only available during this period.

If you spend the New Year in Japan, consider visiting a shrine for Hatsumode and trying Osechi or Ozoni.
On the other hand, city offices and the Immigration Bureau will be closed, making it impossible to complete necessary procedures. Make sure to handle any required tasks early in December.

📗 Japanese National Holidays and Annual Events