Christmas and New Year in Japan
Christmas
If you are dreaming of a White Christmas in Japan you can certainly get the white and it’s easy to get to from Australia, however, Christmas is not a big celebration in Japan. You will hear Christmas music (minus the words) playing in the shops and Western shops will be wrapped up like a big Christmas presents, however, Christmas day is a normal work day.
New Year
New Year celebrations in Japan are also a little different. Some cities have more recently introduced countdown events, however, you won’t see the fireworks displays we are used to in Australia (although fireworks and Sake on the ski slopes is very popular in many ski villages).
Instead Japanese people prepare for the New Year by cleaning houses and clothes and decorating houses and businesses with pine, bamboo and plum trees known as kadomatsu.
On New Years eve, soba noodles, symbolising longevity are eaten.
January 1st is the most important holiday in Japan, where no work is to be done and everyone should be relaxed and happy, it is best started by watching the sunrise. January 1st to 3rd businesses close down and time is spent with family and visiting shrines.
Japan guide and Japan Australia have great descriptions of traditional New Years celebrations in Japan.
Note: January 1st to 3rd some tourist sites and restaurants will close. In this time, families travel home and trains out of Tokyo can be busier than usual. Temples and shrines are absolutely crowded so plan your activities on these days carefully.
Illuminations
One of the most beautiful traditions in Japan over Christmas and New Year is winter illumination as the cities across Japan are dressed up with thousands of tiny twinkling lights! Japanese people brave the cold to come out an night and marvel at the tunnels of light, snow laden trees and spectacular light displays that transform cities, towns and snow fields into a magical winter wonderland!
Illuminations usually run from November to December although some continue into February, so be sure to check out what is on when you are around.
Japan-guide and JR Rail Pass list some of the best illuminations throughout Japan. Some are free while others have an entry fee.
Christmas and New Year in Japan is a fantastic time of celebration and a completely different experience to the BBQ, beach and summer heat of our Aussie Christmas and New Year!
Perhaps a trip to Japan can be your New Years resolution!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone from our family to yours.