This year, the year-end festivities and New Year's celebrations in Japan are marked by increased travel activity, particularly for those returning home to celebrate with family and friends. The peak of this return rush is evident across the country, especially at transportation hubs, where significant spikes are reported.
On December 28th, 2024, reports from Hokkaido detailed the returning crowds at local airports and train stations, with the peak of the travel season indicated by the high number of reservations for the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which is projected to be around 1.5 times more than last year. A news segment highlighted one train arriving at Shinhakodate-Hokuto Station, illustrating the overwhelming volume of travelers eager to reunite with loved ones. “Tokyo from here,” remarked journalist Maeda Aina, describing the busy scene.
Many travelers shared their plans for the holidays, reflecting the traditions surrounding the New Year celebrations. One traveler arriving from Sendai expressed, “I’m spending time with Grandma and hoping to get my New Year's allowance.” Meanwhile, others highlighted the activities they planned with family, from festive meals to house gatherings.
The narrative of families coming together is central to these year-end celebrations. For example, one traveler from Matsumae Town noted the added pressure this year as their brother’s girlfriend was visiting, saying, “I’m nervous because it’s her first time at the family home. I hope we can all eat together comfortably.” A sentiment of excitement and tension surrounding new family dynamics is palpable.
Transportation services have also adjusted to meet the demands of the travel rush, with reports indicating 1.4 times more reservations for express trains compared to the previous year. Travelers flock to JR Sapporo Station with large suitcases, their eager faces showing enthusiasm for connecting with their roots.
Air travel mirrors this rush, with both All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines reporting the highest number of arrivals today, matching the trend of increased reservations from last year by 10% to 20%. Excitedly, travelers avow about the best parts of their trips, with statements like, “I look forward to playing in the snow,” showcasing the joy associated with the winter season.
People's personal stories offer insight beyond statistics, encapsulating the warmth and spirit of the New Year period. Many expressed their desire to harken back to childhood traditions, emphasizing the Japanese perspective of ‘home’ as more than just a location—it's tied deeply to emotional connections and holiday practices.
The experiences gathered through these anecdotes paint a vivid picture of Japanese society and its values revolving around this time of year. Overall, the transition from the hustle of city life to the warmth of family gatherings is echoed throughout journeys taken by countless individuals across Japan.
With winter festivities marking the arrival of 2025, the overall atmosphere conveys excitement and hope. The return home, coupled with enhancing familial bonds, remains at the heart of Japanese culture, as travelers navigate the busy terminals during this period—all eager to partake and savor the joys of being home for the holidays.
Overall, the festive period encourages reflection on personal journeys and shared legacies. Travelers fondly recount wishes to ‘dawdle as much as possible’ during their visits, epitomizing the laid-back spirit associated with the New Year celebrations.
