Japanese New Year: A Dive into the Traditions of Oshogatsu
New Year in Japan , known as Oshogatsu , is one of the most important and deeply rooted holidays in Japanese culture. Unlike Western celebrations, marked by champagne and fireworks, Japanese New Year is a time of calm, reflection, and respect for traditions. Let’s discover together how the Japanese celebrate this unique time of year.
Japanese New Year Preparations
As early as December, the Japanese begin preparing for the New Year . The preparations are not limited to organizing a party, but include a wide range of traditions aimed at purifying and preparing the coming year on solid foundations.
The Big End of Year Cleaning: Osoji
One of the first steps in the preparations is the Osoji , a deep cleaning ritual of homes, offices and even temples. This cleaning is not only physical, but symbolic: it is about getting rid of the bad influences of the past year to start the new year with a purified mind and environment. The Japanese also make sure to settle their debts and file their files so that no unfinished business is left.
New Year's Wishes: Nengajo
Sending nengajo (greeting cards) is another must-have Japanese New Year tradition. Each year, billions of these cards are sent across the country, each bearing messages of happiness and prosperity. Nengajo are often decorated with the Chinese zodiac animal corresponding to the upcoming year and are accompanied by lottery numbers, a popular game among Japanese people to start the year off on a lucky note.
New Year's Eve: Tradition and Simplicity
On the evening of December 31, the festivities are very different from those you might find in the West. Instead of big, noisy parties, Japanese families opt for a quieter evening, often in front of the television.
Toshikoshi Soba: A Dish of Longevity
On New Year 's Eve, it is customary to eat toshikoshi soba , long buckwheat noodles that symbolize longevity. This dish is eaten before midnight to ensure a long and healthy life. Unlike Western festive meals, this dish is simple, yet loaded with meaning.
The 108 Bells: Joya no Kane
At midnight, Buddhist temples across Japan ring out the 108 bells , a ritual known as Joya no Kane . These bells, which symbolize the 108 earthly desires according to Buddhism, mark the purification of the mind and the entry into the new year with a light heart.
New Year's Day in Japan: A Day of Tradition and Remembrance
January 1st, called Gantan in Japanese, is a day dedicated to family and spiritual rituals. The activities of this day are imbued with deep meanings and are intended to ensure a prosperous and happy year.
Hatsumode: The First Visit to the Temple
One of the most important New Year's Day traditions is Hatsumode , the first visit to a temple or shrine. Families go to sacred places to pray, thank the deities for the past year, and ask for protection and blessings for the coming year. It is also an opportunity to draw an omikuji , a small piece of paper that predicts fortune for the months to come.
Hatsuhinode: The First Sunrise
Another tradition dear to the Japanese is the Hatsuhinode , the observation of the first sunrise of the year. This symbolic moment is seen as a sign of renewal and luck for the coming year. Many Japanese get up early to watch this natural spectacle, often from a place offering a breathtaking view, such as Mount Fuji.
Toso: New Year's Sake
Toso is a special sake consumed on New Year's morning. Infused with medicinal herbs, the drink is said to bring health and longevity to those who drink it. Toso is usually shared within the family, strengthening bonds and wishes for happiness in the coming year.
The First Three Days of January: Osechi Ryori and Otoshidama
New Year 's festivities continue through January 3, with culinary traditions and gift-giving continuing to mark the significance of the period.
Osechi Ryori: Traditional New Year's Dishes
Osechi Ryori is an assortment of dishes specially prepared for the New Year , each with a special meaning. For example, black beans symbolize health, while herring roe represents fertility. These dishes are prepared in advance and enjoyed with family during the first three days of January.
Otoshidama: New Year's Gifts for Children
Japanese children look forward to the New Year , not for Christmas presents, but to receive Otoshidama . These envelopes containing money are distributed by parents and relatives, marking a generous start to the year.
Conclusion: A Family and Spiritual Celebration
New Year in Japan is more than just a celebration; it is a time of renewal, purification, and strengthening family bonds. Through purification rituals, temple prayers, and traditional meals, the Japanese begin each new year with wishes for happiness, health, and prosperity.
By celebrating Oshogatsu , the Japanese remind us of the importance of tradition and contemplation in an ever-changing world. Whether you’re in Japan or elsewhere, these customs offer a unique perspective on how to start the year off right.