When is it?
When is Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year) 2023 in Japan?
One of Japan's most important holidays, celebrating the beginning of a new year
Local date
Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Tokyo
How it's calculated
Based on Lunar Calendar
Updated through 2023
History & Origins
The Story Behind Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year)
Chinese New Year has over 3,000 years of history, originating from ancient agrarian society's year-end religious ceremonies. The legend of Nian, a monster scared away by red decorations and loud noises, inspired many traditions. It's the most important holiday in Chinese culture.
Traditions & Celebrations
How Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year) is Celebrated
Celebrations last 15 days and include family reunions, red envelope gifts (hongbao), fireworks, dragon dances, and special foods like dumplings and fish. Homes are decorated in red for luck. The festival ends with the Lantern Festival.
Date Calculation
How the Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year) Date is Determined
Chinese New Year falls on the new moon between January 21 and February 20. It marks the start of a new lunar year and is associated with one of 12 zodiac animals in a rotating cycle.
Shōgatsu (Japanese New Year) worldwide
Compare 2023 dates across countries
China
2023Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Shanghai
Singapore
2023Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Singapore
Hong Kong
2023Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Hong_Kong
Taiwan
2023Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Taipei
South Korea
2023Sunday, January 22, 2023
Time zone · Asia/Seoul
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