Japanese New Year Traditions: An Insight into the Festivities of Shogatsu

As the first rays of the sun illuminate the skyline, we say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new. Watching the first sunrise of the year, known as ‘Hatsuhi-no-de’, is a cherished tradition in Japan. This spectacular sight is believed to bring good fortune and a prosperous new year. This year, I had the privilege of witnessing this spectacular phenomenon, a moment of serenity and tranquility that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

The first visit to a shrine in the New Year, ‘Hatsumode’, is another significant tradition. Crowds gather at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to pray for good health, prosperity, and happiness. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of hope and anticipation as people light incense, ring the temple bell, and toss coins into the offering box. The queues can be long, but the experience is worth the wait. I remember the excitement and anticipation of Hatsumode as a child, waiting in line with my family to offer our prayers and make wishes for the new year.

The first dreams of the New Year, referred to as ‘Hatsuyume’, are also considered auspicious. There’s a saying, ‘ichi-Fuji, ni-taka, san-nasubi’, which translates to “first is Mount Fuji, second is a hawk, and third is an eggplant”. Seeing these three symbols in your dreams is believed to be a good omen. Despite the significance, I have yet to dream of any of these symbols, but it’s still a fascinating tradition.

The first calligraphy of the New Year, ‘Kakizome’, is a practice deeply rooted in Japanese culture. As children, we would write out our aspirations for the New Year in beautiful calligraphy. The act of writing our goals and dreams in this traditional art form is a moment of reflection and hope for the future.

‘Otoshidama’ is another delightful tradition, where adults give money to children around New Year’s. In the past, it was customary to gift mochi, a type of rice cake, but these days, it’s usually money. The age at which children receive Otoshidama varies from family to family, and I was fortunate enough to receive it until high school. The money is placed in a small pouch, known as ‘Pochibukuro’, which is then given to the child. It’s a wonderful way to share joy and prosperity with the younger generation.

Let’s delve into the delicious world of Japanese New Year’s cuisine. ‘Osechi’ is a traditional New Year’s dish, typically served in large boxes. Each dish within the box has its own symbolic meaning, reflecting the hopes and aspirations for the new year. It’s a culinary delight, with a variety of flavors and textures that reflect the richness of Japanese culture.

Another New Year’s delicacy is ‘Zōni’, a soup typically consumed on New Year’s morning. It’s a comforting dish, filled with mochi and sometimes chicken or vegetables. This year, I had the pleasure of enjoying a bowl of Zōni, a perfect start to the New Year, filled with warmth and tradition.

The New Year’s holiday in Japan, known as ‘Shogatsu’, is a time for family, reflection, and celebration. The first three days of January, ‘San-ga-nichi’, are considered the most important, with many businesses and shops closed. However, convenience stores and supermarkets remain open, ensuring that people have access to essentials during the holiday.

The New Year’s sales, ‘Hatsuuri’, are a popular event, where you can find amazing deals on a variety of items. Fuku-bukuro, or “lucky bags”, are sold at these sales, filled with an assortment of goods, from clothes to toys to makeup. The contents of the bags are unknown, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the shopping experience.

In conclusion, the Japanese New Year, or Shogatsu, is a time of tradition, reflection, and celebration. From the first sunrise of the year to the first visit to a shrine, from the first dreams to the first calligraphy, each tradition holds a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people. The New Year’s cuisine, from Osechi to Zōni, is a delightful reflection of Japanese culture and tradition. As we welcome the new year, let’s embrace the spirit of Shogatsu, filled with hope, joy, and the promise of a prosperous future.

Thank you for reading this blog about Japanese New Year traditions. I hope it has given you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of Japan. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. I wish you all a happy and prosperous New Year!