For who is planning to Japan trip in next year

As 2024 draws to a close, have you accomplished everything you set out to do this year?

Despite its modernity, Japan remains a country steeped in tradition, with numerous annual events, customs, and festivals. While these events are familiar to locals, they may seem unfamiliar or puzzling to those experiencing Japan for the first time. This blog introduces some of the key traditional events and festivals celebrated throughout the year in Japan, helping both residents and visitors navigate and enjoy these moments to the fullest.

January 1: New Year’s Day (Gantan)

Start the year with hatsumode (first shrine visit), enjoy osechi ryori (traditional New Year’s dishes), and decorate with kadomatsu (pine decorations) and kagamimochi (decorative rice cakes). Many businesses close for the Shogatsu Sanganichi (three-day New Year period). In 2025, some workplaces may enjoy a nine-day holiday, aligning with the weekend.

January 7: Nanakusa Gayu (Seven-Herb Rice Porridge)

Traditionally eaten to cleanse the body after New Year indulgences, it also marks the end of the New Year decorations.

January 11: Kagami Biraki (Breaking the Mochi)

A symbolic gesture of gratitude, people eat kagamimochi from the New Year offerings.

Second Monday in January: Coming of Age Day 

This public holiday celebrates young adults who turn 20, with local ceremonies, reunions, and festive gatherings.

February 3: Setsubun

Drive away evil spirits by throwing beans while shouting, “Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi!” (“Out with demons, in with fortune!”).

February 14: Valentine’s Day

Women gift chocolates to men. In recent years, this tradition has evolved, including giri choco (obligatory chocolates) and jibun choco (self-reward chocolates).

March 3: Hinamatsuri (Girls’ Day)

A day to pray for the health and happiness of girls by displaying traditional dolls and enjoying hina-arare sweets.

March 14: White Day

Men return gifts to those who gave them Valentine’s chocolates, with specific meanings for different types of gifts.

Early to Mid-April: Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)

Celebrate spring by picnicking under blooming cherry blossoms. Parks come alive with food stalls and festivals.

April 29 – May 5: Golden Week

A cluster of public holidays ideal for travel and leisure. Book early, as accommodations fill up quickly.

July 7: Tanabata (Star Festival)

Write your wishes on colorful strips of paper and hang them on bamboo.

August 13–16: Obon

A time to honor one’s ancestors. Families often return to their hometowns, making it a peak travel period.

September: Tsukimi (Moon Viewing)

Admire the harvest moon while enjoying seasonal treats like tsukimi dango (moon-viewing dumplings).

September 17–24: Silver Week

When the calendar aligns, this autumn holiday series offers a chance to relax.

October 31: Halloween

Halloween in Japan has evolved into a vibrant celebration of costumes and creativity. The costumes range from spooky to whimsical, showcasing endless variety. Tokyo’s Shibuya district is particularly famous for its Halloween festivities, although stricter regulations, such as alcohol bans, have been introduced in recent years to maintain order.

November 15: Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3 Festival)

This traditional rite of passage celebrates the growth and well-being of children aged 3, 5, and 7. Children wear elegant haregi (formal wear) and visit shrines with their families for blessings.

December 22: Winter Solstice (Toji)

A day marked by unique customs, such as eating pumpkin and soaking in yuzu baths. The pumpkin is believed to provide nourishment, while the yuzu bath promotes circulation and symbolizes longevity.

December 24–25: Christmas Eve and Christmas

In Japan, Christmas is more about romance and festivities than family gatherings. On Christmas Eve, couples often enjoy romantic dinners, while children wake up to gifts from Santa. Celebrations feature Christmas cakes and fried chicken—a unique twist compared to Western traditions. It’s worth noting that Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan, so most people work during the day.

December 31: New Year’s Eve (Omisoka)

Ring in the new year by eating toshikoshi soba (buckwheat noodles) and listening to temple bells.

Experience Japan’s Seasonal Charm with MetroResidences

Whether you’re visiting or living in Japan, these traditions offer a window into the country’s unique culture. Need a comfortable place to stay? MetroResidences provides fully-furnished serviced apartments, perfect for exploring these seasonal delights.

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Book select apartments in December with a ¥100,000 deposit!

Visit our website for details and make your stay in Japan memorable.