New Year Holidays in Japan
A Time of Quiet, Tradition, and Spiritual Reset
The New Year holidays in Japan—typically from December 29 to January 3—are one of the most important times of the year for Japanese families. Unlike Christmas, which is seen as casual or romantic, New Year (Oshogatsu) is a deeply rooted cultural and spiritual event. For travelers, it offers a unique view of Japanese life, but it also comes with some practical challenges.
What Happens During New Year?
Most people return to their hometowns to spend time with family. Companies close, shops pause operations, and the entire country takes a breath. It’s a time for reflection, cleaning the house (called *osoji*), visiting shrines, and welcoming the new year with a calm and hopeful spirit.
Many Japanese eat osechi ryori, beautifully arranged traditional dishes in special boxes, and toshikoshi soba, noodles eaten on December 31 to “cut off” the past year. At midnight, bells ring out from Buddhist temples across the country—108 times—symbolizing the cleansing of human desires.
Closures and Travel Disruptions
From **December 29 to January 3**, many **restaurants, museums, and small businesses are closed**. Even some convenience stores and department stores shut down for part of this period, especially in rural areas. However, larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka still offer plenty of open cafes, shopping malls, and hotels.
Trains and airports are extremely crowded before and after January 1, as people travel to and from their hometowns. Booking seats on the Shinkansen or domestic flights well in advance is essential if you’re traveling during this week.
What Can Travelers Do?
While many attractions close, **shrines and temples become the center of activity**. From midnight on December 31 and into the first few days of January, people line up for **Hatsumode**—the first shrine visit of the year. Major spots like **Meiji Shrine (Tokyo)** and **Fushimi Inari (Kyoto)** are filled with worshippers, food stalls, and a special festive atmosphere.
It’s also a rare time to observe quiet Tokyo streets, traditional dress, and deep cultural rituals. Department stores reopen around January 2–3 with fukubukuro (lucky bags)—mystery grab-bags of discounted items that are incredibly popular.
Tips for Visiting During New Year
– **Book transportation and hotels early** (especially Dec 28–Jan 4) – **Check opening hours** in advance—many closures are not posted online in English – **Join Hatsumode** at a local shrine—small neighborhood shrines can be just as meaningful as the big ones – **Try osechi** if offered at your hotel, or find toshikoshi soba on December 31
Should You Visit Japan During New Year?
Yes—**if you’re prepared**. It’s not the time for busy sightseeing, but it’s perfect for those seeking a **quieter, more reflective experience**. You’ll witness how deeply connected Japan still is to its traditions, and you may find yourself starting the year with new perspective.