Shōgatsu 正月
New Year celebrations
New Year (正月, Shōgatsu) is the most important holiday of the year in Japan. Most businesses close their doors from January 1 to 3, and families typically gather over this period.
Traditional activities on New Year's Eve include the eating of toshikoshi soba (buckwheat noodles), symbolizing longevity. Many watch the popular annual music program "Kōhaku Uta Gassen" (televised since 1953!), then visit a shrine or temple around midnight. In recent decades, countdown parties have become more numerous in the large cities, but fireworks at the turn of the year remain uncommon.
Visitors can join the crowds doing hatsumode, the year's first visit to a shrine or temple. Hatsumode festivities are held at practically every shrine and temple across Japan during the first few days of the year, especially on January 1.
On January 2, the Emperor usually makes several public appearances at the Tōkyō Imperial Palace.
While visiting Japan during Shōgatsu can be rewarding, it can also be frustrating, as many attractions, shops and restaurants are closed, and getting around can be difficult.
Many Japanese take the opportunity to head overseas or travel around Japan over the Shōgatsu period, meaning crowds, along with expensive flights and accommodation.