The New Year in Japan, known as Shōgatsu (正月), is one of the most important and culturally rich times of the year. Unlike Western New Year celebrations that focus on parties and countdowns, Japan’s New Year is centered around family, reflection, gratitude, and fresh beginnings.
For international students planning to study in Japan—or those already living here—experiencing the New Year offers a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and traditions. In this guide, we’ll explore how Japan celebrates the New Year, what you can experience as a student, and what Japanese language schools typically do during the year-end holidays.
Why the New Year Is So Important in Japan
In Japan, the New Year symbolizes renewal and a clean start—both mentally and physically. Homes are cleaned thoroughly, debts are settled, and people take time to reflect on the previous year while preparing for the next.
Many businesses close, families reunite, and temples and shrines become especially lively during this period.
For international students, this season offers a unique opportunity to see a more traditional side of Japan that isn’t always visible during daily life.
Key Japanese New Year Traditions You Should Experience
- Ōsōji (大掃除) – The Big Year-End CleaningBefore the year ends, families, schools, and even offices participate in ōsōji, a deep cleaning meant to remove bad luck and welcome the New Year with a fresh start.Student tip: Many share houses and dormitories encourage or organize group cleaning—great for bonding with classmates and housemates.
- Joya no Kane (除夜の鐘) – The 108 Bell RingsOn New Year’s Eve, Buddhist temples ring bells 108 times, symbolizing the cleansing of 108 worldly desires in Buddhism.Popular temples often allow visitors to participate in bell ringing, making it a memorable cultural experience.
- Hatsumōde (初詣) – First Shrine or Temple VisitIn the first few days of January, people visit shrines or temples to pray for:- Good health-Academic success-Career opportunitiesStudents often purchase omamori (charms) or draw omikuji (fortune slips)—a fun and interactive tradition.
- Osechi Ryōri (おせち料理) – Traditional New Year FoodOsechi consists of beautifully arranged dishes, each with symbolic meanings such as:-Prosperity-Longevity-SuccessFor students, department stores and supermarkets sell affordable osechi sets, making it easy to try without cooking.
- Nengajō (年賀状) – New Year’s CardsSending New Year postcards is still a cherished tradition in Japan. Cards are delivered nationwide on January 1st, thanks to a special postal system.Language schools sometimes encourage students to write nengajō as a cultural exercise.
What Japanese Language Schools Do During New Year Holidays
Most Japanese language schools close from late December to early January, typically:
-From December 28–29
-Reopening around January 6–10, depending on the school
During this period:
-Regular classes are on break
-Some schools provide cultural assignments or journaling tasks
-Orientation sessions or new term preparations often begin right after the holidays
At DEOW Japan, we help students understand school schedules in advance so they can plan travel, part-time work, or cultural experiences during the break.
Japanese Language Schools in Japan
Experiencing New Year in Japan as an International Student
Even if you stay in Japan over the holidays, there’s plenty to enjoy:
-Winter illuminations
-Discounted New Year sales (fukubukuro lucky bags)
-Quiet cities with a calm, reflective atmosphere
This is also a great time to explore Japan beyond major tourist spots and experience everyday life more closely.
Celebrating the New Year in Japan is more than just an event, it’s a cultural experience that reflects the country’s values of respect, reflection, and renewal. For international students, it’s the perfect way to deepen cultural understanding while beginning a new chapter in Japan.
If studying in Japan is part of your New Year’s goals, DEOW Japan is here to help make it a reality.
Planning to Study in Japan? Start the New Year with DEOW Japan
Whether you’re interested in Japanese language schools, vocational programs, or university pathways, starting your journey in Japan often aligns with the academic year beginning in spring.
DEOW Japan supports students from application to arrival—so you can focus on learning, culture, and new experiences.
