I always look forward to Christmas and New Year holidays. This is the time of the year when I get to decorate our house for some holiday vibes. As most of you know, Christmas in Japan is different. There are beautiful illuminations, Christmas markets, and gifts on display. However, it does not feel like Christmas. Most of the time is just an ordinary working day. Same with New Year. While other countries welcome the new year with loud noise and fireworks, the noisy and busy Tokyo feels like a ghost town.
The first day of December is like my go signal. This is the day when I would start putting some decors in our living room except for the Christmas tree and nativity. My husband and I have agreed to follow his family traditions in Germany – putting both up on the 23rd.
Christmas Decoration Traditions
Every year we have a several decors which are part of our traditions even though I try to have a different look each year.
Welcoming the New Year
One of the things that became part of our holiday traditions is having a Japanese Oshogatsu arrangement to welcome the incoming year. It features a young Matsu (Japanese pine) branch pine tree to attract good spirits; willow stems for long life; and holly for good wealth.
Happy New Year everyone!
