New Year's Day 2025

Description

New Year’s Day in Japan is the first day of the year. It takes place on January 1 every year. It is a national public holiday, so most businesses and schools are closed that day.

The holiday marks the start of a new calendar year. People see it as a fresh beginning and a chance to think about goals and hopes for the year ahead. It is a time to pause and reflect.

New Year’s Day is very important in Japan because the change of year has deep cultural meaning. It connects families, communities, and the whole country. The date is a shared moment when many people focus on renewal and good wishes.

Because it is a national holiday, government offices recognize the day and many people have time off work. This creates a peaceful rhythm across the country as people mark the start of a new year together.

Traditions

Many families visit shrines or temples for hatsumode. People pray briefly, buy lucky charms, and write wishes on wooden plaques. At midnight some listen to temple bells ringing 108 times to sweep away bad luck.

Homes display decorations like kadomatsu and shimenawa. Families place kagami mochi on altars and later break it in a ritual called kagami biraki. Children receive otoshidama, small envelopes with money, from relatives.

Special foods called osechi ryori are eaten from layered boxes. Each item has a lucky meaning. People also eat ozoni, a warm soup with mochi, to start the year together at home.

Travel Tips

Many shops, museums and some restaurants close Jan 1 to Jan 3. Train and bus schedules change and services can be very crowded on Dec 31 night and Jan 1 morning. Book accommodation and check timetables in advance.

Carry cash because some ATMs close. Bring warm clothes and water. Expect long lines at popular sites and follow local queuing and safety rules. Make reservations for meals and use IC cards for trains to move faster. Visit less crowded parks or neighborhoods for a calmer experience.