January 1 Bank Holiday in Japan

History and Traditions: January 1 is a significant national holiday in Japan, known as Shōgatsu (正月), which refers to the Japanese New Year. This holiday has deep roots in Shinto traditions, where the beginning of a new year is considered an important time for renewal and celebration.

The history of New Year celebrations in Japan can be traced back to the adaptation of the lunar-solar Chinese calendar, with influences from Chinese New Year customs. However, since 1873, Japan has adopted the Gregorian calendar and now celebrates New Year's Day on January 1.

Celebrations and Activities: On this day, most businesses and banks are closed, allowing people to engage in traditional activities. Japanese people typically spend time with family and perform various customs intended to bring good luck for the upcoming year:

• Hatsumōde: The first shrine or temple visit of the new year to pray for good fortune.
• Osechi-ryōri: Special dishes prepared before New Year's Eve meant to last several days during which cooking is avoided.
• Otoshidama: Gift-giving practice where children receive money in small decorative envelopes.
• Toshikoshi soba: Eating buckwheat noodles on New Year's Eve symbolizing longevity and prosperity.

Homes are often cleaned and decorated with items such as kadomatsu (bamboo pine decorations) and shimenawa (sacred straw rope), both believed to invite and welcome ancestral spirits or kami of the harvest.

The Emperor's New Year Greeting at the Imperial Palace is another highlight, where thousands gather to receive well-wishes from the Imperial Family.

Overall, January 1st is a day steeped in tradition, family bonding, reflection on the past year, and aspirations for a prosperous future.