Japanese new year

Celebrating the New Year in Japan

Winter in Japan can be very cold, yet the period around New Year's Day is my favourite time of year - a time to return home, share meals, and enjoy festive activities with family and friends.

The Japanese New Year festival begins on New Year's Eve, with customs steeped in tradition and symbolism.

Toshikoshi Soba (年越し蕎麦) - New Year's Eve Noodles

It is customary to eat buckwheat noodles, called Toshikoshi Soba, on New Year's Eve.

Soba noodles symbolise health, longevity, and family fortune. They are also believed to ward off bad luck from the past year, as their soft, easily breakable texture represents cutting off misfortune.

Joya no Kane (除夜の鐘) - Ringing the Temple Bells

Buddhist temples across Japan ring their bells 108 times to represent the 108 human sins according to Buddhist belief. Typically, the bell is struck 107 times on New Year's Eve, and once more exactly as the clock strikes midnight. This final ring symbolises letting go of last year's troubles and starting the year afresh.

Hatsuhinode (初日の出) - First Sunrise of the Year

On January 1st, many people wake early to witness Hatsuhinode, the first sunrise of the year. Traditionally, it is believed that Toshigami, the Shinto god of the year, appears with the first sunrise, bringing good luck and blessings for the months ahead.

Osechi (御節料理) - Traditional New Year's Cuisine

Osechi is a beautifully arranged assortment of dishes served in stackable lacquer boxes (jubako, 重箱). These foods were originally chosen because they keep well, giving women a short break from cooking during the first few days of January.

The Japanese New Year is not just a time for celebration - it is a season of reflection, gratitude, and hope. Each tradition, from noodles to sunrise to ceremonial dishes, carries a wish for health, happiness, and prosperty, reminding us to honour the past and embrace the year ahead with joy.