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Each New Year in Japan brings a change not only in the calendar, but also in the zodiac animal tied to the year ahead. This post explains how the Japanese zodiac system works, reflects on the Year of the Snake, and looks at what the Year of the Horse represents for 2026.

After the preparations of late December, the New Year in Japan takes on a calmer vibe, with families spending January 1 at home with traditional meals, visiting shrines for their first prayers of the year, and traveling to see relatives during the holiday period. Building on the customs introduced before the New Year, this second part looks at how the first days of January are spent, and how traditions and modern life come together as families mark the start of a new year.

This first part explores the days leading up to January 1, from year-end cleaning and final shopping to traditional decorations and how families spend New Year’s Eve together, including shared meals and the ringing of temple bells at midnight. Together, these customs show how Japanese households close the old year, creating a clear transition before welcoming the New Year.

Discover the full 2026 Japanese National Holidays calendar with cultural insights. Perfect for travelers or anyone interning in Japan!

Japan’s year-end period brings a set of work practices that influence how companies plan December: evaluations, partner visits, nengajō exchanges, and operational shutdowns. This post outlines how these customs developed over time, how they affect workplace routines, and why many companies still rely on them to close out the year in an organized way.

From historical beginnings centuries ago to today’s Christmas markets, cakes, and fried chicken, this post gives a look at how Christmas became a familiar part of winter in its own Japanese way, exploring the traditions that developed over time and the many ways people enjoy the season today!