Two Big-Name Shrines for Hatsumode
You can't go wrong visiting your local shrine in the first three days of the New Year to pray for a healthy and prosperous year. But if you're going to go out, why not go big?
Kicking It Old School
If you happen to be in Kyoto around the turn of the New Year, you won't want to miss this spectacle of men and women dressed in Heian-style robes playing their version of soccer.
5 Fun Otoshidama Envelopes
What's better than getting an envelope full of money at New Year's? How about a cool-looking envelope full of money!
How to Make it to the Office the Day After
We all like to eat and drink endlessly, but nobody likes a stomachache or a hangover. Here are four Japanese tricks for beating the post-party blaaaaghs.
The Biggest Temple You've Never Heard Of
While many regions of Japan are world-renowned for their shrines and temples, sometimes it's the ones you've never heard of that leave the biggest impression.
NekoPOP’s Best J-Pop Album Covers 2015
Chosen by NekoPOP contributors David Cirone, Jen Wang, Nhu Nguyen and Greg Hignight, the full list of stylish selections includes AKB48, Kalafina, Capsule, Tomomi Itano, Perfume and many more!
New Year's Cards Get a Moe Makeover!
To the delight of otaku fans, this year Japan Post really "moe-fied" its end-of-year cards.
7 Reasons to Experience New Year's in Japan
After the romance from Christmas Eve has settled, Japan turns to the New Year's holiday as a time of family reunions and traditions that you won't want to miss!
Spoil Yourself with New Year's Mystery Bags
If you’ve ever visited Japan or Japanese online shops around New Year's, you’re bound to have seen some mysterious bags called 'fukuburo' appearing on the shelves. Read on to find out how to get the most out of them!
The Ultimate Anime Fukubukuro Collection!
New Year’s Day is an extremely important day for otaku in Japan—it’s one of the best days of the year to bring home hauls of your favorite anime goods!
What is Otoshidama?
While visions of sugar-plums dance in the heads of children celebrating Christmas, Japanese kids dream of opening an envelope with a special gift inside.
Sanrio Brings in the New Year with Hello Kitty
Even if you forgot to send out your Christmas cards this year, you can still mail out Sario New Year's cards with some eye-popping features.
The Complete Guide to Osechi Ryori
In addition to watching the sunrise on the first day of the New Year, be prepared to gorge yourself on tiny dishes that have auspicious meanings.
Sweet Osechi
Kill two birds with one stone—satisfying your sweet tooth and buying osechi for New Year's—by heading over to Ginza Cozy Corner for a special turn-of-the-year treat.
The Year of Kimono has Arrived!
Seeking out a kimono that's woven with vibrant colors and modern designs? Look no further than Harajuku's Laforet!
8 Things to Know About New Year's in Japan
All about Japan's biggest holiday of the year!
5 Spots to Watch New Year's Fireworks in Japan
There's nothing like bright lights to bring in the New Year!
Top 3 Part-Time Jobs During the Holidays
The end of December is the busiest time of year in Japan, so almost everywhere is looking for extra help!
New Year's Photos in the Meiji Period
Ever wonder what New Year's would be like in Japan at the turn of the 20th century? Thanks to photographer Kozaburo Tamura, we can take a glimpse into New Year's past!
The Most Expensive Fukubukuro Bags
How much would you be willing to spend on a New Year's grab bag?
