How to Say Happy New Year in Japan: 'Akemashite Omedetou'

The best way to say happy new year in Japan is with the phrase Akemashite Omedetou (明けましておめでとう), which is traditionally followed by Kotoshi mo Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu (今年もよろしくお願いします) to express continued goodwill. This greeting is used nationwide starting at midnight on January 1st and throughout the first week of the year. As one of the most culturally significant holidays in Japan, New Year—known as Shogatsu (正月)—is marked by family gatherings, temple visits, traditional foods, and deep-rooted customs that reflect Shinto and Buddhist influences. Understanding how to say happy new year in Japan not only involves learning the correct phrases but also respecting the etiquette and timing behind their use.

Understanding the Japanese New Year: Shogatsu

In Japan, the New Year is celebrated on January 1st according to the Gregorian calendar, a practice adopted during the Meiji Restoration in 1873. Unlike many East Asian countries that follow the lunar calendar for New Year celebrations, Japan transitioned to the solar calendar, aligning its major holiday with Western observances while preserving unique cultural rituals. The period from December 31st to January 3rd is considered the core of Shogatsu, though festivities can extend into the second week of January, especially in rural areas.

Shogatsu is more than just a calendar change—it's a spiritual reset. Families clean their homes thoroughly in a practice called osouji (大掃除) to purify the space and welcome Toshigami-sama, the deity of the incoming year. Homes are decorated with kadomatsu (gateway pine arrangements) and shimekazari (sacred straw ropes), symbols meant to invite good fortune and ward off evil spirits.

The Meaning Behind 'Akemashite Omedetou'

The phrase Akemashite Omedetou literally translates to 'Congratulations on the dawn (of the new year).' The word akemashite comes from akeru, meaning 'to open' or 'to dawn,' symbolizing the opening of a fresh year. While it may seem formal, this expression is used universally—from children to elders, colleagues to strangers—and carries warmth and sincerity.

It is typically followed by Kotoshi mo Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu, which means 'I look forward to your continued kindness this year.' This second part reflects the Japanese value of maintaining harmonious relationships (wa) and mutual respect. When exchanging New Year greetings in person, it’s customary to bow slightly after speaking, especially when addressing elders or superiors.

When and How to Use the Greeting

Timing matters when saying happy new year in Japan. On January 1st, people begin sending nengajo (年賀状), New Year’s postcards, which must be delivered on the first day to bring luck. If you're visiting someone’s home or attending a public event like a temple bell-ringing ceremony (Joya no Kane), using Akemashite Omedetou is appropriate.

However, if you miss the first few days of January, it's better to switch to Kinenbi o Medetou Gozaimasu (記念日をお祝い申し上げます) or simply acknowledge the delay with an apology before offering belated wishes. In business settings, employees often greet clients and partners with formal letters or emails containing these phrases around January 4th, the first official workday in many companies.

Regional Variations and Dialects

While Akemashite Omedetou is standard across Japan, regional dialects offer interesting variations. In parts of Kansai, particularly Osaka and Kyoto, some locals may use Shin-nen omedetou (新年おめでとう) more casually. In Okinawa, where the Ryukyuan culture remains strong, New Year traditions differ significantly. Many Okinawans still observe the lunar New Year in addition to January 1st, and greetings may include native languages like Uchinaaguchi.

For example, in Uchinaaguchi, one might hear Saree nu duibui arigatoo during lunar celebrations, although standard Japanese is still dominant in formal contexts. These regional differences highlight Japan’s cultural diversity and remind us that even national holidays can carry local flavors.

Common Misconceptions About Saying Happy New Year in Japan

One common misunderstanding is assuming that 'Happy New Year' should be translated directly as Xinnian Kuai Le (from Chinese). This Mandarin phrase is not used in Japan and may confuse native speakers. Another misconception is thinking that New Year’s Eve (Omisoka) is the main celebration day. While Omisoka features important rituals like eating toshikoshi soba (year-crossing noodles) and listening to 108 temple bells, the primary greetings are exchanged on January 1st.

Additionally, some believe that verbal greetings alone suffice. However, in Japan, actions reinforce words. Giving otoshidama (lucky money in decorative envelopes) to children, preparing osechi ryori (traditional boxed meals), and visiting shrines are all integral parts of conveying good wishes for the new year.

Traditional Foods and Their Symbolism

No discussion of how to say happy new year in Japan would be complete without mentioning osechi ryori, the elaborate multi-tiered meal eaten during the first three days of January. Each dish carries symbolic meaning:

Dish	Name (Japanese)	Symbolism
Kazunoko	数の子	Fertility and prosperity (many offspring)
Tai (sea bream)	鯛	Good fortune (wordplay: 'tai' sounds like 'medetai' – auspicious)
Kuromame	黒豆	Health and hard work (beans = diligence)
Namazu (catfish)	鯰	Protection from earthquakes (believed to calm the earth)
Datemaki	伊達巻	Scholarship and culture (resembles a scroll)

Preparing or sharing osechi is itself a form of expressing New Year goodwill, reinforcing family bonds and hopes for abundance.

New Year Temple and Shrine Visits: Hatsumode

Millions of Japanese participate in hatsumode (初詣), the first shrine or temple visit of the year, usually between January 1st and 3rd. Popular destinations like Meiji Shrine in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari in Kyoto attract over two million visitors each year. During hatsumode, people pray for health, success, and happiness, toss coins into offering boxes, and draw omikuji (fortune slips).

While there’s no specific verbal greeting required at shrines, saying Akemashite Omedetou to fellow worshippers or staff is perfectly acceptable. Some also purchase ema (votive plaques) to write personal messages for the new year, further extending the theme of well-wishing beyond spoken words.

Modern Trends and Digital Greetings

In recent years, digital communication has transformed how people say happy new year in Japan. While physical nengajo remain popular—Japan Post reports over 2.5 billion mailed annually—more people now send e-cards, LINE messages, or social media posts. Emojis like 🎍 (pine decoration), 🎏 (windmill), and 🎆 (fireworks) often accompany the text Akemashite Omedetou online.

Businesses also leverage New Year greetings in marketing campaigns. Department stores run hatsu-ichi sale (first sale of the year), and TV networks broadcast special programs featuring celebrities saying Akemashite Omedetou to viewers. Despite these modern adaptations, the core sentiment remains unchanged: renewal, gratitude, and hope.

Practical Tips for Visitors and Language Learners

• Practice pronunciation: 'Akemashite Omedetou' is pronounced ah-keh-mah-shee-teh oh-meh-deh-toh.
• Use proper timing: Avoid using the phrase before January 1st. Instead, wish someone a 'Joyous New Year' with Yoi Otsukai o (良いお年を) on December 31st.
• Respect hierarchy: In formal situations, add honorifics like gozaimasu for politeness.
• Send a nengajo: Even non-Japanese can participate by mailing a postcard through Japan Post’s international service.
• Attend a public event: Join a hatsumode or watch the emperor’s New Year address at the Imperial Palace (January 2nd).

Verifying Local Customs and Dates

Because some regions and organizations may adjust holiday schedules, always verify dates and practices before planning visits or sending greetings. For instance, company New Year parties (bounenkai and shinnenkai) vary by industry. Check official websites of temples, embassies, or local governments for updated information. Travelers should also confirm transportation and retail hours, as many businesses close from December 31st to January 3rd.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common way to say happy new year in Japan?

The most common and respectful phrase is Akemashite Omedetou, followed by Kotoshi mo Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu.

Can I say 'Happy New Year' in English in Japan?

Yes, especially in tourist areas or international settings, but using the Japanese phrase shows cultural appreciation.

Is the Japanese New Year based on the lunar calendar?

No, Japan officially celebrates New Year on January 1st using the Gregorian calendar, though some communities observe lunar traditions.

When should I send New Year cards in Japan?

Nengajo should arrive on January 1st. Japan Post offers a timed delivery service for domestic and international cards.

Do Japanese people exchange gifts during New Year?

Yes, adults give otoshidama (money in envelopes) to children, and businesses often send gift sets to clients.

In conclusion, knowing how to say happy new year in Japan goes beyond memorizing a phrase—it opens a window into a rich cultural tradition centered on renewal, respect, and connection. Whether you're visiting, studying, or simply curious about global customs, mastering Akemashite Omedetou is a meaningful step toward deeper cross-cultural understanding.