New Year's Day Description
January 1st. A major national holiday celebrating the beginning of the new year, with offerings to the New Year deity (Toshigami) and first temple visits (Hatsumode) praying for good health and fortune. Under the Act on National Holidays, government offices and most schools close; banks and post offices usually follow the public schedule, while private businesses may differ. Confirm substitute holiday rules with the Cabinet Office calendar for the year.
