The New Year is a time for fresh starts, reflection, and, of course, connecting with loved ones.
In Japan, this season is steeped in tradition, with unique greetings and wishes that capture the spirit of renewal.
Whether you’re sending a message to family, friends, or colleagues, having the right words can make all the difference.
Let’s explore a variety of Japanese New Year’s wishes to help you ring in the year with warmth and sincerity.
Traditional Japanese New Year Greetings
Japanese New Year, or Oshogatsu, is a deeply cherished holiday.
It’s a period filled with customs, from visiting shrines to enjoying special foods.
The way people greet each other reflects a desire for peace and prosperity in the coming year.
These traditional phrases are the bedrock of New Year’s communication in Japan.
1. “Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu.” – This is the most common and formal New Year’s greeting, meaning “Happy New Year.” It’s suitable for almost any situation.
2. “Shinnen omedetou gozaimasu.” – Similar to the above, this also means “Happy New Year,” often used slightly later in the New Year period.
3. “Kinga shinnen.” – A more formal and literary way to say “Happy New Year,” often seen in written greetings or formal speeches.
4. “Gashou.” – A very brief and polite New Year’s greeting, essentially meaning “Happy New Year.” It’s a concise option for passing by someone.
5. “Yoi otoshi o.” – This is said *before* New Year’s Day, meaning “Have a good year.” It’s a way to wish someone well as the old year ends.
6. “Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu.” – Translates to “Please treat me well again this year.” It expresses a wish for continued good relations.
7. “Hatsu-uri.” – Refers to the first sale of the New Year, often accompanied by special discounts and a festive atmosphere.
8. “Hatsumode.” – The first shrine or temple visit of the New Year. It’s a significant custom for many Japanese people.
9. “Osechi-ryori.” – Traditional New Year’s foods, specially prepared and beautifully arranged in tiered boxes. Each dish has a symbolic meaning.
10. “Nengajo.” – New Year’s greeting cards sent to friends, family, and colleagues. They are a popular way to send wishes.
11. “Ganjitsu.” – Refers specifically to New Year’s Day itself, the most important day of the celebration.
12. “Sagan.” – The traditional Japanese New Year’s Eve dinner. It’s a time for families to gather and reflect.
13. “Otoshidama.” – Money given to children by their elders as a New Year’s gift. It’s a delightful tradition for younger generations.
14. “Kakizome.” – The first calligraphy writing of the New Year. It’s an artistic practice that signifies setting intentions.
15. “Shimekazari.” – A traditional New Year’s decoration, often hung on doors to ward off evil spirits and welcome good fortune.
16. “Mochitsuki.” – The ritual of pounding rice to make mochi, a sticky rice cake central to New Year’s celebrations.
17. “Kouhaku Uta Gassen.” – A popular annual music show broadcast on New Year’s Eve, featuring famous singers and bands.
18. “Joya no Kane.” – The ringing of temple bells 108 times on New Year’s Eve to cleanse the 108 worldly desires.
19. “Zoni.” – A soup dish containing mochi, a staple of the Japanese New Year’s meal, with regional variations.
20. “Hatsuyume.” – The first dream of the New Year, often interpreted for good or bad omens.
These foundational phrases and customs set the stage for a meaningful New Year.
Wishes for Health and Well-being
The start of a new year is a natural time to focus on health and happiness.
In Japan, wishes for good health are paramount, reflecting a deep respect for life.
These sentiments are often expressed with heartfelt sincerity.
21. “Kenkou de anshin shite kuraseru ichinen ni narimasu you ni.” – “May it be a year where you can live with health and peace of mind.” This is a comprehensive wish for overall well-being.
22. “Karada ni ki wo tsukete, genki de sugoshite kudasai.” – “Please take care of yourself and stay healthy.” A caring reminder for anyone, especially older relatives.
23. “Mainichi ga akaruku, tanoshii hibi de arimasu you ni.” – “May every day be a bright and enjoyable one.” This wish focuses on daily happiness.
24. “Gokigen you.” – A polite and somewhat old-fashioned way to say “Hope you are well” or “Take care.” It’s a gentle closing.
25. “Shikagami no tsuki no you ni, seido no kagami no you ni, kokoro wo kirei ni.” – “Like the moon reflected in the water, like a mirror of purity, may your heart be clean.” This poetic wish speaks to inner peace and clarity.
26. “Fukujuu.” – This word signifies “fortune and longevity,” a classic wish for a long and prosperous life.
27. “Ichi-nen no saiwai o.” – “Wishing you a year of happiness.” A simple yet powerful sentiment for the year ahead.
28. “O-genki de.” – “Stay healthy.” A very common and direct way to express concern for someone’s health.
29. “Kono ichinen ga anata ni totte subarashii mono de arimasu you ni.” – “May this year be a wonderful one for you.” A broad wish encompassing all good things.
30. “Heian na mainichi o.” – “Wishing you peaceful days.” This focuses on tranquility and freedom from worry.
31. “Shibashi no koutai o.” – “Wishing you a temporary respite.” Used when someone has been working very hard, wishing them a break.
32. “Seimei yuugen.” – “Long life.” A direct wish for longevity, often used in more formal or traditional contexts.
33. “Jiyuu na jikan o yukkuri to.” – “Enjoy your free time leisurely.” A wish for relaxation and personal enjoyment.
34. “Shinshin kakujitsu ni.” – “Steadily and surely.” This implies a wish for consistent progress and well-being.
35. “Katsuyaku o inorimasu.” – “I pray for your success.” While not strictly health, it wishes for a vibrant and active year.
36. “Samazama na shiawase ga otozuremasu you ni.” – “May various happiness visit you.” A wish for a multitude of joyful experiences.
37. “Itsumo o-tsukaresama desu. Raunen mo ganbatte kudasai.” – “You always work so hard. Please do your best next year too.” Acknowledges their efforts and wishes them continued strength.
38. “Nenju-gyoji o enman ni.” – “May the year’s events go smoothly.” A wish for a year without significant troubles.
39. “Koukishin o wasurezu ni.” – “Without forgetting your curiosity.” Encourages a spirit of exploration and learning.
40. “Nenkou no tame ni.” – “For the sake of your longevity.” A very traditional and respectful wish for a long life.
These wishes emphasize a holistic approach to well-being, encompassing both physical and mental health.
Wishes for Success and Prosperity
The New Year is also a time to look forward to achievements and good fortune.
Many Japanese New Year greetings focus on aspirations for career, studies, and financial well-being.
These wishes are often imbued with a sense of hopeful ambition.
41. “Shigoto ga jouzu ni ikimasu you ni.” – “May your work go smoothly.” A common wish for professional success.
42. “Gakumon ga seichou shimasu you ni.” – “May your studies flourish.” Perfect for students or anyone pursuing further education.
43. “Kigyou ga seikou shimasu you ni.” – “May your business be successful.” A vital wish for entrepreneurs and business owners.
44. “Shoubai hanzou.” – “May your business prosper.” A traditional phrase for commercial success and growth.
45. “Kinpou ga fueta.” – “May your wealth increase.” A direct wish for financial prosperity.
46. “Shinnen ni atari, go-keiei ga iroasenu koto o o-inori moshiagemasu.” – “On the occasion of the New Year, I pray that your business will not fade.” A formal and respectful wish for business continuity and success.
47. “Koukyuu o mezasu.” – “Aim for high rank.” A wish for career advancement and recognition.
48. “Suteki na deai ga arimasu you ni.” – “May you have wonderful encounters.” This can refer to new friendships, business opportunities, or romantic connections.
49. “Shuusoku.” – “Success” or “completion.” A wish for the successful culmination of projects or goals.
50. “Kouun o inorimasu.” – “I wish you good luck.” A simple but effective wish for fortunate circumstances.
51. “Jisshi.” – “Realization” or “accomplishment.” A wish for dreams and plans to be brought to fruition.
52. “Kibou no tane o maku.” – “Sow the seeds of hope.” A poetic wish for future growth and positive outcomes.
53. “Saikou no nen ni.” – “For the best year.” A general wish for an outstanding and successful year.
54. “Tenka.” – “Success” or “victory.” Often used in contexts where there’s competition or a challenge to overcome.
55. “Shinnen no go-hizei o o-inori moshiagemasu.” – “I wish you a prosperous New Year.” A formal greeting suitable for business associates.
56. “Yume ga kanau ichinen ni.” – “May it be a year where your dreams come true.” A heartfelt wish for aspirations to be realized.
57. “Kouritsu.” – “Efficiency.” A wish for productive and well-managed efforts throughout the year.
58. “Sougou-teki na seichou.” – “Comprehensive growth.” A wish for development in all aspects of life.
59. “Shoumei o eru.” – “To gain recognition.” A wish for one’s efforts and talents to be acknowledged.
60. “Kakushin shite.” – “With conviction.” Encourages determination and belief in one’s goals.
These phrases are perfect for motivating friends, colleagues, or anyone embarking on new ventures.
Poetic and Sentimental Wishes
Beyond the everyday greetings, there are wishes that carry a deeper, more poetic resonance.
These phrases often evoke imagery and express profound feelings about life and relationships.
They add a touch of elegance and heartfelt emotion to New Year’s messages.
61. “Sora takaku, umi fukaku, kokoro hiroku.” – “Sky high, sea deep, heart wide.” This encourages broad perspectives and a generous spirit.
62. “Kaze no oto ni michibika re, hikari ni terasa re.” – “Guided by the sound of the wind, illuminated by the light.” A wish for gentle guidance and clarity in the year ahead.
63. “Tada, shizukana yorokobi o.” – “Just, quiet joy.” A wish for simple, profound happiness that doesn’t need fanfare.
64. “Hana no you ni sakihokore.” – “Bloom like a flower.” An encouragement to flourish and show one’s true beauty.
65. “Tsukihi no nagare ni, kokoro o yudaneru.” – “Entrust your heart to the flow of time.” A wish for acceptance and peace with the passage of time.
66. “Ashiato o kasanete.” – “Accumulating footprints.” A metaphor for building a life and leaving a mark through consistent effort.
67. “Kagayaki o wasurezu ni.” – “Without forgetting your brilliance.” A reminder of one’s inherent worth and potential.
68. “Kokoro ni taiyou o idaite.” – “Embrace the sun in your heart.” Encourages warmth, optimism, and inner light.
69. “Yume miru koto o wasurenaide.” – “Don’t forget to dream.” A gentle nudge to keep aspirations alive.
70. “Hoshi no you ni kagayaku.” – “Shine like a star.” A wish for individuality and brilliance to be recognized.
71. “Mori no oku ni hibiku you na.” – “Like an echo in the depths of the forest.” Suggests a profound and lasting impact.
72. “Ame no hi ni wa, nijiu o matsu.” – “On rainy days, wait for the rainbow.” A wish for hope and positivity even during difficult times.
73. “Kawa no you ni nagareru mama ni.” – “Flowing like a river.” Encourages adaptability and going with the natural course of life.
74. “Hana o sakaseru you ni, yasashisa o.” – “Kindness, like blooming flowers.” A wish for gentle and beautiful acts of compassion.
75. “Kokoro no tabibito.” – “A traveler of the heart.” Suggests a journey of introspection and emotional growth.
76. “Yami o terasu hikari.” – “Light that illuminates darkness.” A wish for hope and guidance through challenging periods.
77. “Fukai nemuri kara samete.” – “Awakening from a deep sleep.” Symbolizes renewal and a fresh start.
78. “Kokoro ni uta o.” – “A song in your heart.” A wish for joy, inspiration, and inner harmony.
79. “Shizuka na nami no you ni.” – “Like quiet waves.” Evokes a sense of calm and gentle movement.
80. “Arata na kisetsu no hajimari.” – “The beginning of a new season.” A simple yet powerful statement about renewal.
These poetic expressions add a layer of depth and beauty to New Year’s sentiments.
Playful and Modern Wishes
While tradition is important, modern Japanese culture also embraces lighter, more contemporary ways to express New Year’s greetings.
These wishes are often more casual and can inject a bit of fun into your messages.
They are perfect for friends and younger acquaintances.
81. “Kono ichinen mo, yancha shimasu!” – “I’ll be mischievous again this year!” A playful way to say you’ll be your usual lively self.
82. “Zenryoku de ganbarimasu!” – “I’ll give it my all!” An energetic declaration of effort for the coming year.
83. “O-medetai ichinen ni shiyou ze!” – “Let’s make it a celebratory year!” A very casual and enthusiastic group wish.
84. “Kono ippai no ai o komete.” – “With this overflowing love.” A warm and affectionate closing for close friends or family.
85. “Mata ashita!” (Used playfully for the New Year) – “See you tomorrow!” A humorous way to acknowledge the quick transition into the new year.
86. “Rakushou!” – “Easy win!” A slang term wishing for effortless success in whatever one does.
87. “Kono ichinen mo, wakuwaku o!” – “This year too, more excitement!” A wish for a year filled with thrilling experiences.
88. “Yume wo oikakete, ganbarou!” – “Let’s chase our dreams and do our best!” An encouraging and action-oriented wish.
89. “O-moide ippai tsukurou ne!” – “Let’s make lots of memories!” A wish for shared experiences and good times.
90. “Saikou no ichinen ni shimasu!” – “I’ll make it the best year!” A personal declaration of intent for a fantastic year.
91. “Kono ichinen mo, yosshi ikuzo!” – “This year too, alright, let’s go!” An enthusiastic and motivational exclamation.
92. “Ashita no koto wa, ashita kangaeyou.” – “Let’s think about tomorrow, tomorrow.” A lighthearted way to encourage living in the present.
93. “O-wakare ga shinpai desu.” (Said playfully about the old year ending) – “I’m worried about saying goodbye.” A humorous, slightly dramatic way to express fondness for the past year.
94. “Kono ichinen mo, yoroshiku desu yo!” – “Please continue to treat me well this year!” A slightly more casual and emphatic version of the traditional phrase.
95. “Genki dashite ikou!” – “Let’s go with energy!” A cheerful and motivating wish for vitality.
96. “O-tsukiai ni arigatou.” (Said at year-end to friends) – “Thank you for your companionship.” A warm expression of gratitude for relationships.
97. “Kono ichinen mo, yume wo hakushon!” – “This year too, may your dreams sneeze!” A very quirky and playful wish, implying dreams will burst forth energetically.
98. “O-tanoshimi ni!” – “Looking forward to it!” Often used when anticipating fun events or interactions in the new year.
99. “Kono ichinen mo, saikou no rizult o!” – “This year too, for the best results!” A modern, results-oriented wish.
100. “Atsuku naru ichinen ni shiyou!” – “Let’s make it a passionate year!” A wish for enthusiasm and fervor.
These modern phrases add a contemporary flair, making your greetings relatable and fun.
As the New Year dawns, remember that the best wishes come from the heart.
Whether you choose a traditional phrase or a modern expression, your thoughtfulness will be appreciated.
May your New Year be filled with joy, health, and prosperity.
Happy New Year!