Japan New Year Travel Guide: Hatsumode, Joya no Kane, Year-End Sales & Lucky Bags

By Nihongo to Japan · Updated June 18, 2026

New Year's Eve in Japan is a unique cultural experience: joya no kane (108 bell rings), hatsumode (first shrine visit), year-end sales, and fukubukuro lucky bags. This guide covers the complete New Year's Japan travel experience.

Japan New Year (oshogatsu) highlights: joya no kane (108 bell rings at midnight), hatsumode (first shrine visit Jan 1-3), year-end clearance sales, and fukubukuro lucky bags on Jan 1.

Warning: Dec 29-Jan 3 is Japan's busiest holiday period — hotels are 2-5x normal prices, many restaurants close. Book accommodations months ahead.

Book New Year Japan tours at [Klook](https://klook.tpx.lv/IuSKdjjt).