How to Enjoy New Year’s in Japan

Posted on 12/29/2023 Last updated on 01/11/2024

Ah, the New Year’s holiday season in Japan—a time when ancient traditions seamlessly blend with modern festivities, creating a unique and enchanting experience. If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Land of the Rising Sun as the calendar turns, get ready for a celebration like no other. Here’s your insider’s guide to savoring every moment of this magical season.

Countdown to Joy: Temple Bells and Shrine Visits

Photo by マキマキカンパニー

As the year comes to a close, Japan prepares for a grand countdown. Instead of raucous parties and fireworks, the Japanese welcome the New Year with the solemn tolling of temple bells. Join the locals in a spiritual journey by visiting a nearby Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine on New Year’s Eve. The resonating sounds of the bells (108 times, to be precise) are said to cleanse the soul, leaving you ready to embrace the possibilities of the coming year.

Omikuji Wishes: Fortune in Your Hands

Photo by きなこもち

Ever wondered what the future holds for you? Get your answers with the age-old tradition of omikuji. At shrines, you can purchase a small, paper fortune that unveils your destiny for the upcoming year. Whether it’s great fortune, regular fortune, or even misfortune, don’t fret— simply tie the paper to a designated rack and leave the outcome in the hands of the divine.

First Sunrise: Greet the Future with Awe

Photo by gakkiy

Start the New Year on a high—literally. Many Japanese venture to the coast to witness the first sunrise, or “hatsuhinode.” It’s a breathtaking spectacle symbolizing hope and renewal. Pack a thermos of hot tea, find a cozy spot, and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of vivid colors. Trust me, it’s a memory you’ll carry with you into the future.

Osechi-Ryori: Culinary Artistry on Your Plate

Photo by てらぽん

New Year’s in Japan is incomplete without a feast of osechi-ryori, a collection of traditional foods packed with symbolic meanings. Each dish represents a wish for health, happiness, and prosperity. From sweet black beans to beautifully layered bento boxes, savor the flavors of this culinary artistry. Don’t forget to try ozoni, a traditional soup that varies in preparation from region to region.

Hatsumode: First Shrine Visit of the Year

Photo by FreeBackPhoto

After indulging in the festivities, kickstart your New Year with a hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Join the cheerful crowd as they make their wishes for the coming months. It’s a lively atmosphere filled with laughter, joy, and the sweet scent of incense. Embrace the positive energy and make your own heartfelt wishes as you explore the beautifully adorned shrines.

Fukubukuro: Bag of Surprises

Photo by Hinamalu

Ready to kick off the year with some good luck and great bargains? Dive into the tradition of fukubukuro, or “lucky bags.” Many stores offer mystery bags filled with discounted items, and part of the excitement lies in not knowing exactly what you’ll get. It’s a shopping adventure that adds a touch of thrill to the New Year sales.

In Japan, the New Year’s holiday season is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a cultural experience that engages all the senses. So, as you embark on this enchanting journey, let the ancient traditions guide you and the modern celebrations dazzle you. May your New Year be filled with joy, prosperity, and the magic of Japan’s unique festivities!

Photo Credits:

Top Photo: ラスラ on PhotoAC

Additional photos by マキマキカンパニーきなこもち gakkiy てらぽん FreeBackPhoto and Hinamalu