Day off for New Year’s Day in Japan ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Day off for New Year’s Day in Japan and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
New Year’s Day has been celebrated in Japan since ancient times. It is a national holiday and is usually observed with traditional customs such as visiting shrines and temples, eating special foods, and exchanging gifts. The modern celebration of New Year’s Day in Japan began in the Meiji period (1868-1912). During that time, the government declared January 1 to be a day off to give people time to celebrate the new year. Since then, New Year’s Day has been a day off for all Japanese citizens.
Today, New Year’s Day is still celebrated with many traditional customs. On the night before New Year’s Day, families gather for a feast called “Otoshidama” and exchange gifts. People also visit shrines and temples to pray for good fortune in the upcoming year. At midnight on New Year’s Day, many people watch the first sunrise of the year from mountaintops or beaches. Other popular activities include playing card games, writing New Year’s wishes, and decorating homes with new year decorations.
No matter how people choose to celebrate New Year’s Day, it is an important occasion for reflecting on the past and looking towards the future. New Year’s Day is a chance to start fresh and make resolutions for the upcoming year. It is a time to spend with family and friends, share stories, and enjoy traditional foods. It is also a time to appreciate the beauty of nature and take part in local events. By taking part in these activities, people can create special memories that will last a lifetime.