Japanese New Year (Shōgatsu) is the most important holiday in Japan.
From January 1st to the first few days of the year, the atmosphere of the country changes completely.
If you are visiting Japan during this time, here are 7 things you should experience to truly enjoy Japanese New Year.
1. Visit a Shrine or Temple for Hatsumode
When: January 1–3
Where: Shrines and temples across Japan
What is it?
Hatsumode is the first shrine or temple visit of the year. People pray for health, happiness, success, and safe travels.
How to do it
- Bow lightly before entering
- Clean your hands at the water basin
- Throw a coin, pray quietly, and bow
Popular spots:
- Meiji Shrine (Tokyo)
- Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto)
- Sumiyoshi Taisha (Osaka)
2. Draw an Omikuji (Fortune Slip)
When: Early January
Where: Shrines and temples
What is it?
Omikuji is a paper fortune that predicts your luck for the coming year.
How to do it
- Draw a slip from a box
- If the fortune is bad, tie it to a tree or rack at the shrine
✨ A fun and easy cultural experience, even if you don’t speak Japanese.
3. See Traditional New Year Decorations
When: Late December – around January 7
Where: House entrances, hotels, shops
What to look for
- Kadomatsu: Bamboo and pine decorations to welcome gods
- Shimenawa: Sacred ropes that mark pure spaces
📸 These decorations are perfect for photos and street walks.
4. Try Osechi Ryori (New Year Cuisine)
When: January 1–3
Where: Hotels, department stores, some restaurants
What is it?
Osechi is a special New Year meal served in beautiful boxes. Each dish has a symbolic meaning.
Examples:
- Black beans: Good health
- Herring roe: Family prosperity
- Shrimp: Long life
💡 Tip for travelers: Many department stores sell small osechi sets.
5. Experience Kakizome (First Calligraphy of the Year)
When: Around January 2
Where: Cultural centers, workshops, events
What is it?
Kakizome is the tradition of writing your New Year wish using a brush and ink.
Popular words to write:
- Dream
- Happiness
- Travel
🖌️ Some workshops are designed especially for foreign visitors.
6. Enjoy Fukubukuro (Lucky Bags)
When: January 1–3 (varies by store)
Where: Department stores, shopping malls
What is it?
Fukubukuro are mystery bags filled with discounted items.
Why it’s popular
- Great value
- Japan-only items
- Fun surprise element
🛍️ Fashion, cosmetics, and character goods are especially popular.
7. Feel the Quiet Side of Japan
When: December 31 – January 3
Where: Cities and towns nationwide
What makes it special?
- Many shops close
- Streets are calm and peaceful
- A very different atmosphere from normal Japan
Best way to enjoy it
- Walk around temples and parks
- Relax at your hotel
- Enjoy slow travel
🌿 It’s a rare chance to see Japan at its calmest.
Final Thoughts
Japanese New Year is not just a celebration—it’s a cultural experience.
Even trying just a few of these traditions will make your trip more memorable and meaningful.
If you visit Japan during New Year, don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity.
Alcoholic beverage Anime April Architecture August Autumn Building Capital Area Cherry blossom February Flower Hokkaido January Japanese food July Kinki kyoto Local ramen Manga March Nagoya Nature Nightlife Night view October Osaka Photogenic Pink Red September Shopping Shrine Souvenir Spring Station Summer Superb view Temple Tips Tohoku Tokai Tokyo Torii White Winter
More from my site
What Is Kadomatsu? Japan’s Bamboo Decoration Explained | Japanese New Year Tradition
Lucky Bag (Fukubukuro) in Japan: New Year Deals Tourists Love
2026: The Year of the Horse in Japan – Meaning, Culture, and New Year Souvenirs
Best Hatsumode Spots in Tokyo for the New Year
Is There a New Year’s Countdown in Shibuya?
Happy new year in Japan = Hatsumode to shrine or temple