In Japan, the New Year is the most important holiday of the year.
People spend this time with family, enjoy special food, and visit shrines to pray for good luck.
Here are some common Japanese New Year greetings and words you’ll often hear around this time.
よいお年（とし）を
This phrase is used before the New Year, usually at the end of December.
It means something like “Have a good New Year.”
あけましておめでとうございます
This is the standard New Year greeting said after January 1st.
A casual version is あけましておめでとう.
ことしもよろしくおねがいします
This phrase doesn’t translate directly into English.
It’s a polite way to say “I look forward to our continued relationship this year.”
New Year Words
お正月（おしょうがつ） — New Year
The New Year holiday period in Japan.
初詣（はつもうで） — first shrine visit of the year
Many people visit a shrine or temple to pray for health and happiness.
お年玉（おとしだま） — New Year’s gift money for children
Children receive money from parents or relatives during the New Year.
おせち
Traditional Japanese New Year food, eaten to bring good luck.
Each dish has a special meaning, such as health, happiness, or success.
If you’re learning Japanese, the New Year is a great time to explore both the language and culture together.
