Happy New Year!

New Year’s Day in Japan is observed on January 1, and the period around the end of December through early January is traditionally a time when many people take extended time off—often a multi-day break that gives families a chance to gather. During this holiday window, it’s common for those working or studying in big cities to return to their hometowns and spend time with family.

Every country has its own New Year’s customs, and Japan is no exception. If you want a deeper background, check our related piece, “Japanese New Year: the Traditional Japanese Culture That You Never Know,” which covers a range of traditional practices in more detail.

One of the most popular New Year’s traditions is hatsumode—the first shrine or temple visit of the year. People head to shrines and temples to give thanks for the past year and to pray for health, safety, and good fortune in the year ahead. Some families even go late at night to arrive right when the date flips, aiming to be among the first to offer their prayers.

If you’re living in Japan or visiting during New Year’s, what should you know to participate respectfully and confidently? Below is a practical, step-by-step guide to hatsumode etiquette and what to expect.

When should I go to hatsumode?

There are various opinions about the timing of Hatsumode.

It is said that since the god of the year comes on New Year’s Eve (the Oomisoka), people should wait at home and then go to Hatsumode in the morning after eating New Year’s giblet or Osechi Ryouri on the next day (New Year’s Day).

It is also said that it is not necessary to go to Hatsumode in the morning of New Year’s Day, but also in the afternoon, or even within three days from the first day of New Year.

The current saying is to go to Hatsumode on the day of New Year’s Day, within three days, or, if you miss it, within seven days (in Japanese, it is called Matsunouchi, which refers to the period of decoration of the gate pine).

It is said that visiting a shrine or temple on New Year’s Eve, the moment the date changes, is called “nenshinri,” and many people choose it because it is said to accumulate more merit.

However, there is no strict time limit for Hatsumode, so you can go when you can.

Should I go to a shrine or a temple?

Short answer: either one is fine.

It seems that there is a saying that if you do not go to a shrine at Hatsumode, you cannot go. Some people also say that you must go to a famous shrine. But in fact, it is possible to go to a shrine or a temple.

People go to the first matsuri in order to give thanks for the safe passage of last year and to pray for happiness in the coming year. Unless there is a reason for belief (such as Buddhism), it is the same for both gods and Buddhas, as long as we are thankful and devout.

Also, it is not necessary to go to a famous shrine or temple. It may be better to greet the gods and Buddhas of nearby shrines or temples before going to famous places.

In the Kansai region of Japan, such as Kyoto and Osaka, people tend to visit shrines during their Hatsumode, while in the Kanto region, such as Tokyo, people visit both shrines and temples. However, it should be noted that there are some differences in the rituals for visiting shrines and temples, which we will introduce below.

Do I have to wear a kimono?

Many people wear formal attire, and wearing a kimono is certainly a traditional and elegant choice for hatsumode. But it’s not required. The focus of the visit is the attitude of respect and gratitude, not the exact clothes you wear. Business attire, smart casual outfits, or neat everyday clothes are all perfectly acceptable.

As a general guideline, avoid overly casual items—ripped jeans, loud beachwear, or anything that would be inappropriate in a place of worship. Also remember basic courtesies: remove hats when entering shrine or temple grounds and dress modestly if you plan to join formal ceremonies.

How to visit a shrine (step-by-step)

Pause at the torii

Most Shinto shrines have a torii gate marking the entrance to the sacred precinct. It’s courteous to pause briefly at the torii and offer a small bow before passing through as a sign of respect.

Avoid walking in the center of the path

The main approach to the shrine—often called the sando—is traditionally considered the route used by the kami (deities), so it’s polite to walk on either side of the path rather than the exact center.

Cleanse at the chozuya (water basin)

Near the shrine entrance you’ll usually find a water basin (the chozuya or temizuya) with ladles for ritual cleansing. The common method is:

1. Use the ladle to pour water over your left hand.
2. Switch hands and pour water over your right hand.
3. Scoop water into your left hand and rinse your mouth (do not drink directly from the ladle), then spit the water discreetly to the side—do not spit back into the basin.
4. Finally, hold the ladle vertically to let remaining water run down the handle to cleanse it, and return the ladle.

Be careful not to touch the ladle tip to your mouth or to drip water back into the basin.

Bow, offer, and pray at the money box (saisen-bako)

When you reach the main hall, there is usually a wooden offering box (saisen-bako). Place your offering (a small coin is customary) gently into the box—don’t throw it in roughly. If there’s a rope and bell, ringing it lightly is common practice to attract the deity’s attention.

Two bows, two claps, one bow

At many shrines the typical sequence is: bow twice, clap your hands twice, make your wish silently, then bow once more. This is a concise, respectful way to offer your prayer. If you have a specific wish, make it in your mind during the moment of the claps.

Bowing as you leave

When you depart, it’s polite to turn slightly toward the main hall or the torii and offer a final bow as a sign of farewell and thanks.

How to visit a temple

Visiting a Buddhist temple is similar to a shrine visit, but there are a few differences in practice and emphasis. Temples often have incense burners and a quieter, more introspective atmosphere.

Bow before entering the temple gate

Before stepping through the temple gate, take a moment to bow as a gesture of respect. Avoid stepping on thresholds, which are traditionally treated with reverence.

Inside the temple grounds, pathways may be arranged differently; walk considerately and follow signs or local custom—if in doubt, follow what other worshippers are doing.

Washing hands and mouth (chozuya)

If the temple has a water basin, perform the same cleansing ritual used at shrines. This helps prepare you for a respectful visit.

Incense and offering

Many temples have a large incense burner. It’s common to wave some incense smoke toward yourself as a symbolic cleansing. If you light incense, do so thoughtfully—avoid, for example, using someone else’s flame or disturbing others. Lighting your own stick and offering it respectfully is the usual approach.

Offer money and make a quiet wish

Temples don’t usually use the two-bow/two-clap sequence. Instead, after placing an offering, it’s customary to stand quietly with hands together and make a silent prayer or wish.

Exit respectfully

After your prayer, bow once more and then exit. When you reach the gate, a final bow toward the temple is a thoughtful gesture.

Conclusion

Hatsumode is a gentle, meaningful way to mark the start of a new year—whether you’re aiming to follow local tradition closely or simply want to participate respectfully as a visitor. The essentials are straightforward: approach with a thankful attitude, follow the simple purification and offering steps, dress appropriately, and observe local cues.

If you haven’t had a chance to make a first shrine or temple visit this year, consider giving it a try—many people find it a calming and uplifting way to begin the year.