What to do for New Year's Eve in Japan — our staff recommendations!
- Publié le : 24/07/2026
- Par : Japan Experience
- Youtube
Traditions all over Japan
Oshogatsu, the Japanese New Year, is one of the most important celebrations on the calendar. December 31st and the first three days of January are punctuated by festivities throughout the archipelago. We'd like to introduce you to these traditional events:
Joya no Kane: the 108-bell ceremony
On the night of December 31, the bells of Buddhist temples ring out 108 times (Joya no Kane) to symbolize the purification of sins and renewal. Japanese families visit temples to pray and write their wishes on ema (wooden plaques). If you do go to the temple, choose small, local temples and avoid tourist sites such as Meiji Jingu in Tokyo, which are often overcrowded.
Toshikoshi soba and mochi: dishes for good luck
A few tasty dishes are said to bring good luck on New Year's Eve:
- Toshikoshi soba: Served in a hot broth, soba represents longevity and prosperity. They are traditionally eaten before midnight to "leave behind the difficulties of the past year."
- Mochi: Rice cakes are a symbol of good luck. Caution: Their chewy texture can be dangerous for young children and the elderly—consume with care!
Visiting Japan for the New Year? Although most businesses close their doors for the first three days of January, the archipelago is full of activities to celebrate the New Year. To get 2026 off to the best possible start, Japan Experience reveals its picks for New Year's Eve in several Japanese cities!
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