Posted on: 24 December 2025

Shōgatsu Tips for Foreigners Moving to Japan This New Year

As the New Year approaches, Japan enters one of its most cherished and culturally rich seasons: Shōgatsu (正月). This period, typically spanning from 1st to 3rd January, is a time of celebration, reflection, family gatherings, and tradition. For foreigners planning a move to Japan around this festive time, or those who have just arrived, Shōgatsu can feel both magical and overwhelming. Between navigating customs, adjusting to local schedules, and understanding what’s open or closed, it helps to have a guide that blends cultural insight with practical advice, including unique things to do during this special season.

Whether you’re here long-term, considering settling down, or even exploring the idea of foreigners buying property in Japan, understanding the rhythm of Japanese life during Shōgatsu will make your transition smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a comprehensive look at tips and insights to help you make the most of your first New Year in Japan.

Understanding Shōgatsu: More Than Just a Holiday

Shōgatsu in Japan is not simply a day off, it’s a major cultural season with deep significance. Many businesses, services, and government offices close for several days. Streets can become unusually quiet, particularly in urban areas where locals return to their hometowns. This is a time dedicated to family and traditional practices such as ringing temple bells, eating special dishes called osechi-ryōri, and visiting shrines (hatsumōde) for the year’s first prayers.

As a newcomer, appreciating this cultural tempo helps set realistic expectations for what life is like during this festive stretch. Bureaucratic delays, limited services, and closed shops aren’t signs of inconvenience, they’re part of a collective national pause.

Pre-Arrival Planning: Get Essentials Sorted Early

If you’re moving to Japan around the New Year, preparation is key. Because many institutions shut down between late December and early January, it’s important to complete essential tasks before the holiday period begins.

• Visa and Residency Documentation: Finalise your Resident Card, visa status, and any necessary registrations in advance. Immigration offices typically close from 29th December to 3rd January.
• Bank Accounts and Financials: Open a Japanese bank account and set up essential services like online banking before the holidays. Banks observe extended closures, and ATMs at convenience stores may have limited functions for non-cash withdrawals.
• Mobile and Internet Services: Finalise contracts for mobile phones and internet installation ahead of time to avoid long waits once offices reopen.

Taking care of these groundwork steps early helps you enjoy the holiday period without unnecessary stress.

Embracing Shōgatsu Customs: What to Expect and Try

Shōgatsu is steeped in tradition, and participating in local customs is a delightful way to connect with your new home.

• Osechi-Ryōri: Traditional New Year’s cuisine served in tiered boxes. Each item has symbolic meaning, such as health, prosperity, and longevity. While you may initially rely on local supermarkets, trying a prepared osechi box from a department store or specialty restaurant offers a delicious cultural experience.
• Hatsumōde: The first shrine or temple visit of the year is a core Shōgatsu activity. Popular shrines like Meiji Jingu in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari in Kyoto can attract huge crowds. Prepare for queues, but relish the festive atmosphere and the chance to make wishes for the year ahead.
• Nengajō (New Year Cards): Much like Western Christmas cards, Japanese people send New Year greetings. Purchasing and sending nengajō can be a lovely way to engage with neighbours and colleagues.

Immersing yourself in these traditions adds meaningful context to your experience of living in Japan.

Navigating Closures: What’s Open and What’s Not

One of the biggest adjustments for newcomers during Shōgatsu is understanding that many services pause operations. Many shops, banks, municipal offices, and even post offices close from late December to early January. Here’s how to handle it:

• Supermarkets and Convenience Stores: While most large supermarkets close for one or two days, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart remain open throughout Shōgatsu. These are lifesavers for groceries, basic supplies, and ATMs.
• Public Transport: Trains and buses largely continue to run, though schedules may be reduced slightly. Major lines serving pilgrimage sites may be busier than usual due to shrine visits.
• Healthcare Services: Hospitals and clinics often close or operate with limited hours. If you require medication or medical care, plan ahead by securing prescriptions or confirming emergency services availability.

A little foresight goes a long way in keeping your transition during this period hassle-free.

Social Etiquette and Greeting Customs

Japanese social etiquette, already nuanced during regular days, becomes even more pronounced during Shōgatsu. Understanding key dos and don’ts will help foster good relationships with neighbours, colleagues, and friends.

• Seasonal Greetings: Instead of “Merry Christmas,” you’ll hear “Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu” (Happy New Year). Even simple acknowledgements of the season show respect for local norms.
• Gift Giving: Giving small gifts (known as oseibo at year-end) is customary. If invited to someone’s home, consider bringing a modest present like sweets or tea.
• Respect for Traditions: Removing shoes before entering homes, being mindful of noise levels (especially during shrine visits), and following queue etiquette all demonstrate cultural respect.

Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and adapt, making your time in Japan more fulfilling.

Money Matters: Handling Expenses During the Holidays

Shōgatsu can be an expensive time in Japan, with special foods, shrine offerings, and festivities adding up. Here are some tips for managing your finances:

• Set a Budget for Festivities: Plan how much you want to spend on osechi, shrine visits, and celebratory outings. Supermarkets often sell pre-made osechi sets, but these can be pricey.
• Cash Is Still King: Many smaller vendors and shrine offerings accept cash only. Ensure you have sufficient yen before banks close for the holidays.
• Be Aware of Sales: Some shops offer “Fukubukuro” (lucky bags) after New Year’s Day. These mystery bags can offer good value but be prepared for crowds and queues.

Managing money wisely ensures you enjoy cultural experiences without financial stress.

Making New Connections: Building Your Community

Moving to Japan at New Year offers a unique opportunity to build connections. Many events, community gatherings, and neighbourhood traditions happen during Shōgatsu. To immerse yourself socially:

• Volunteer at Local Events: Many communities host mochi-pounding (mochi-tsuki) events or local shrine activities. Volunteering can be a great way to meet people.
• Attend Language Exchange Groups: While some may take a brief break during Shōgatsu, many social groups resume in earnest in early January. These are excellent for improving language skills and meeting fellow expats.
• Connect Through Shared Traditions: Participating in community customs, such as shrine visits or tea ceremonies, opens doors to deeper cultural understanding and friendships.

Building social ties early helps you feel at home more quickly.

Practical Living Tips for New Residents

Beyond holiday festivities, moving to Japan involves everyday life adjustments. Here are practical tips to help you settle in:

• Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: While English is spoken in major cities, simple phrases make a huge difference in daily interactions, especially during festive periods when English support may be limited.
• Understand the Waste Sorting Rules: Japanese waste separation is strict and varies by municipality. Familiarise yourself with local guidelines as soon as you move in.
• Public Transport Etiquette: Silence on trains, queuing in marked lines, and prioritising seats for those in need are more than polite. They’re expected.

Adapting to daily norms enriches your experience and fosters community respect.

Conclusion: Starting the Year Right in Japan

Celebrating Shōgatsu as a foreigner moving to Japan is a remarkable way to begin your life in this culturally vibrant country. From participating in traditions like hatsumōde and sampling osechi-ryōri, to navigating closures and connecting with your community, this season offers profound insight into Japanese life. If you’re contemplating long-term living, embracing the local way of life from the start will serve you well.

JP Homes wishes you a joyful and fulfilling New Year in Japan. By approaching Shōgatsu with curiosity, respect, and preparation, you’re setting the tone for a successful and enriching life ahead. For more guidance on settling into Japan and finding your perfect home here, explore the resources and services available at JP Homes.