When is japanese new year?
Updated: September 19, 2024The Japanese New Year, or Shōgatsu, is one of the most significant holidays in Japan, celebrated with a variety of traditional customs and rituals. Unlike the Lunar New Year celebrated in many other Asian countries, Japan follows the Gregorian calendar, meaning their New Year falls on January 1st. However, the celebration extends beyond a single day, involving numerous preparatory and follow-up activities.
The Historical Context of Japanese New Year
Originally, Japan celebrated the New Year based on the lunar calendar, just like China and Korea. This changed during the Meiji Restoration in 1873 when Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar. Since then, January 1st marks the beginning of the new year in Japan. This shift was part of Japan's broader efforts to modernize and align more closely with Western practices.
Traditional Preparations for Japanese New Year
Oosouji
One of the most important preparatory steps is Oosouji, which translates to "big cleaning." Families clean their homes thoroughly to welcome the New Year with a fresh start, symbolizing the purification of the old year's misfortunes and making way for new good luck.
Kadomatsu and Shimenawa
Decorations such as Kadomatsu and Shimenawa are placed at the entrances of homes and businesses. Kadomatsu are made from pine, bamboo, and plum trees, representing longevity, prosperity, and steadfastness, respectively. Shimenawa are sacred ropes made from straw, decorated with white paper strips, and signify purification.
New Year's Eve: Ōmisoka
The night before New Year’s Day, known as Ōmisoka, is a time for families to gather and partake in special activities. One traditional food is Toshikoshi Soba, or "year-crossing noodles," symbolizing longevity and the crossing from one year to the next.
Joya no Kane
Temples ring bells 108 times on New Year’s Eve in a ceremony called Joya no Kane. This tradition is rooted in Buddhist beliefs and is intended to dispel the 108 earthly desires that cause human suffering, purifying the mind and spirit for the new year.
New Year's Day: Gantan
New Year’s Day, known as Gantan, is a day for family gatherings and celebrations. People dress in their finest clothes, often traditional kimono, and visit Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples to pray for health, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
Hatsumode
The first shrine visit of the year, known as Hatsumode, is an essential tradition. People offer prayers, purchase charms for luck, and draw omikuji (fortune-telling paper strips). Popular shrines and temples, such as Meiji Shrine in Tokyo and Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, attract millions of visitors during this period.
Osechi Ryori
On New Year's Day, families enjoy a special meal called Osechi Ryori. This meal consists of various dishes, each symbolizing different aspects of good fortune. For example, Kazunoko (herring roe) represents fertility, while Kuro-mame (black beans) signify health. These dishes are often prepared in advance and stored in beautifully lacquered boxes.
Post-New Year Celebrations
Nengajo
Sending New Year's cards, known as Nengajo, is a common tradition. These cards are usually sent to friends, family, and business associates and often feature auspicious images and messages. The Japanese postal system ensures that these cards are delivered on January 1st, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Kakizome
On January 2nd, many people participate in Kakizome, the first calligraphy writing of the year. Participants often write auspicious kanji or phrases that reflect their hopes and resolutions for the coming year. This practice is not only a form of artistic expression but also a way to set positive intentions.
Coming of Age Day
Although not directly part of the New Year's celebration, Seijin no Hi, or Coming of Age Day, is held on the second Monday of January. This national holiday honors young people who have reached the age of 20, the legal age of adulthood in Japan. Ceremonies are held in local government offices, and participants often wear traditional attire such as kimono and hakama.
Unique Regional Traditions
Akita Prefecture: Namahage
In Akita Prefecture, the New Year is marked by the Namahage ritual. Men dress as ogres and go door-to-door, scaring children and urging them to be good in the coming year. This custom is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
Kagoshima Prefecture: Boze Matsuri
In Kagoshima, the Boze Matsuri involves costumed figures who perform dances to ensure a bountiful harvest and good health for the new year. This tradition is deeply rooted in local culture and adds a unique flavor to the New Year celebrations in the region.
Modern Influences and Changes
While traditional practices remain strong, modern influences have also shaped Japanese New Year celebrations. Many people incorporate Western customs, such as watching the New Year’s Eve countdown on TV or attending New Year’s parties. The influence of globalization has made the celebration more diverse, blending old and new traditions.
Shopping and Sales
The New Year also marks the beginning of Fukubukuro (lucky bag) sales, where retailers offer mystery bags filled with goods at a discounted price. This practice has become a significant part of the New Year’s economy, attracting shoppers eager for bargains.
Digital Nengajo
With the rise of digital communication, many people now send Nengajo via email or social media. This modern twist retains the spirit of the tradition while adapting to contemporary lifestyles.
Looking Ahead
The Japanese New Year is a time of reflection, renewal, and hope. It is a period rich in tradition, yet open to modern influences, offering a unique blend of past and present. As Japan continues to evolve, so too will its New Year celebrations, reflecting the dynamic nature of its culture and society.
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