Japan welcomed the New Year of 2025 with vibrant celebrations and cherished traditions, marked by family gatherings, early morning runs to witness breathtaking sunrises, and the joyous atmosphere of market auctions throughout the country.
One notable figure celebrating the New Year is Riko Izumiya, a prominent athlete in the heptathlon, who shared her festive spirit via Instagram on January 4th. "2025 Happy New Year 🐍🌅✨ 新年あけましておめでとうございます☺︎," she wrote, accompanied by multiple photographs from her trip. The 23-year-old athlete expressed gratitude for family connections, stating, "This New Year, we traveled to Ise with family, enjoyed our time, and ran along the beach at dawn to greet the sunrise before visiting the Shinmei Shrine for our first shrine visit of the year (初詣), where you are said to have one wish fulfilled." With her resolve, she added, "I prayed for success in my athletics this year and will work hard to make it happen!"
Traditions run deep during New Year celebrations, with many Japanese people participating in the practice of hatsumode, which involves the first shrine visit of the year. This year, Izumiya and her family incorporated these traditions with their celebratory plans, blending personal reflections with cultural practices.
Meanwhile, on January 5th, Utsunomiya's Central Wholesale Market buzzed with excitement during its annual New Year auction, known as 初競り (hatsu-sori). Held before sunrise, the atmosphere was filled with elation as the auctioneers announced product availability and egged on bidders. The president of the Utsunomiya Fish Market, Yasuhiro Kobayashi, addressed the gathered crowd, remarking, "We live in times when we don’t have much to depend on, but let’s join forces to survive." His encouraging words set the stage for the lively transactions to follow.
At roughly 5:30 AM, the sound of the ceremonial gong echoed through the market, initiating the bidding for 52 frozen bluefin tuna. The dynamic exchanges exhibited the determination and hopes of local traders. Bids flew, and the highest price for one bluefin tuna went for ¥471,960 (approximately $4,400) for one weighing 190 kilograms. The event showcased not only the vitality of the market but also the enduring spirit of the community as they celebrated the dawn of the new year.
Not limited to sea fare, the morning continued with the auction of fresh produce starting at 7 AM, where seasonal items like strawberries and leeks from Tochigi were sold. Approximately 16 tons of seafood and 309 tons of vegetables filled the marketplace, reflecting the bounty of the region.
With multiple festivities taking place across Japan, the New Year period allowed communities to reflect upon their hopes and aspirations for the upcoming year, whether through family travels or local traditions. Riko Izumiya’s story of family bonding and the spirited auctions hold significant meaning, illustrating the cultural richness characteristic of Japanese New Year celebrations.
New Year’s is more than just a change of calendar; it’s about laying foundations for the future and preserving cherished customs. Japanese people embraced the likelihood of new beginnings during these celebrations, buoyed by community spirit and the promise of family connections. With every shared meal, heartfelt prayer, and successful auction, they welcomed 2025 with open arms and hopeful hearts.