New Year, or 正月 shōgatsu, is one of the most important holidays in Japan. Following the Gregorian calendar, most businesses shut down from January 1 to January 3, and families typically gather to spend the days together eating food that celebrates longevity such as Toshi-Koshi Soba, and Kagami Mochi. Otoshidama is also given to children by adult relatives. It is a monetary gift presented in special money envelopes called “pochi-bukuro” that can have all sorts of simple and elegant designs.

Check out Oomomo’s money envelopes here:
👉 Money Envelopes

Japanese people participate in “Osouji” on New Year’s Day- sometimes even a few days before. Somewhat similar to spring cleaning in western culture, it translates to “a deep cleaning of one’s household”. This custom is practiced because it is believed that in order to welcome “Toshigami”, the kami (Shinto deity) of the New Year which brings families good luck and health in the coming year, the home must first be cleansed and purified. It’s really important for the locals!

Check out how you can declutter and transform your cleaning routine with amazing items from Kokubo!
👉 Kokubo Collection

Celebrated by many countries with Chinese influence, Lunar New Year follows the lunisolar calendar year, and often happens near the end of January or at the beginning of February. Similar to Japanese New Year, relatives visit each other to enjoy auspicious food, but these food are different, and can range from dumplings and roasted pig to seafood delicacies such as abalone. Though some families prefer to eat out, many still prefer having the meal at home and preparing the food themselves.

Check out Oomomo’s cooking supplies here:
👉 Cooking Supplies

Writing auspicious couplets in red is also a popular tradition. They carry short blessings that wish those who receive it a prosperous and lucky year ahead. Though the Japanese also have a similar custom, they usually write it at the beginning of January. Also, their couplets are usually in white!

Check out Oomomo’s calligraphy sets here:
👉 Calligraphy Sets