Are you planning a trip to Japan during the holiday season and wondering how long the Christmas vacation is? Well, you have come to the right place! In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Christmas vacation in Japan.
What is Christmas in Japan?
Firstly, it’s important to know that Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan. It’s considered more of a commercial and romantic event rather than a religious one.
Japanese people celebrate Christmas Eve as a romantic date night with their significant other or friends. It’s common for couples to exchange gifts and enjoy a fancy dinner together.
How long is the Christmas vacation in Japan?
Since Christmas isn’t a national holiday, there isn’t an official vacation period for it. However, many companies and schools do give their employees or students time off during this period, usually from December 23rd to January 3rd. This period is called “Shogatsu” which means New Year’s Day in Japanese.
What can you expect during Shogatsu?
During Shogatsu, many businesses and shops are closed so it’s best to plan your itinerary accordingly. However, tourist attractions like theme parks and museums tend to stay open during this period since it’s peak tourist season.
It’s also common for Japanese people to return to their hometowns during Shogatsu to spend time with their families. This means that transportation can be very crowded and expensive around this time of year.
What are some popular activities during Shogatsu?
Japanese people have many traditions and customs surrounding New Year’s Day. Some of these include:
- Hatsumode: The first shrine or temple visit of the year
- Osechi Ryori: Traditional Japanese New Year foods
- Mochi: Sticky rice cakes that are eaten during New Year’s celebrations
- Toshikoshi Soba: Buckwheat noodles eaten on New Year’s Eve to symbolize longevity and good luck
- Kakizome: The first calligraphy of the year
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Christmas isn’t a national holiday in Japan, the period between December 23rd to January 3rd is considered a vacation period for many companies and schools. It’s important to plan ahead during this period as many businesses and shops may be closed. Additionally, it’s a great opportunity to learn about Japanese traditions and customs surrounding New Year’s Day.