In Japan, the tradition of sending New Year’s cards, known as nengajo (年賀状), is an integral part of the culture, deeply rooted in customs that date back centuries. These cards serve not only as a way to wish others a Happy New Year but also as a symbol of gratitude and goodwill, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and nurturing relationships in Japanese society. The nengajo tradition is observed widely, from individuals to companies, and it is considered an essential aspect of Japanese New Year celebrations.
Historical Origins of Nengajo
The origins of nengajo can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185), when it was customary to send greeting cards to express goodwill for the upcoming year. However, it was not until the late 19th century, during the Meiji period (1868-1912), that the practice of sending New Year’s cards became more standardized and widely adopted. It was around this time that the Japanese postal system, under the influence of Western postal practices, began promoting the custom of sending cards specifically for New Year greetings. The introduction of the New Year’s Day lottery for nengajo, which gave recipients a chance to win prizes, further solidified the tradition’s popularity.
Nengajo and Its Symbolism
Nengajo are typically designed with imagery that represents the coming year in the Japanese zodiac. Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals of the zodiac, and the nengajo design will often feature the corresponding animal. For example, in the Year of the Ox, the card might feature an ox in a traditional or stylized form. The animal for the year is chosen based on the Chinese lunar calendar, which plays a central role in the New Year’s celebrations in Japan. These designs are believed to bring good fortune and blessings for the year ahead.
In addition to zodiac animals, nengajo designs may also include motifs of prosperity, good health, and happiness, such as cherry blossoms, pine trees, cranes, or Mount Fuji. These symbols are meant to convey positive wishes and hopes for the recipient’s well-being and success in the coming year.
The Timing of Nengajo
One of the key features of nengajo is the precise timing of their delivery. Nengajo are usually sent in late December and must arrive by January 1st, the first day of the New Year. This punctuality is seen as a way of welcoming the new year properly, ensuring that the first contact with friends, family, and colleagues is one of good intention and respect.
Sending the cards on time is so important in Japan that if a person sends nengajo after the New Year’s Day, it may be viewed as rude or inconsiderate. In fact, the Japanese post office goes to great lengths to ensure that nengajo are delivered promptly, often assigning additional staff and implementing special delivery services during the holiday season to meet the demand.
The Etiquette of Writing Nengajo
Writing nengajo follows a particular set of rules and etiquette, making it an art form in its own right. First, the sender must ensure that the card is addressed properly, using formal language. The wording usually includes phrases like “Akemashite omedeto gozaimasu” (明けましておめでとうございます), which means “Happy New Year,” and it may be followed by more specific wishes for the recipient’s health, happiness, and success.
For people with whom one shares a more formal or professional relationship, the tone of the message should be respectful, and the design of the card may be more subdued and minimalist. On the other hand, cards sent to close friends and family members may feature more personal messages and vibrant designs. The card’s tone is crucial in maintaining proper social harmony, which is highly valued in Japanese culture.
The sender is also expected to carefully choose the content of the message. Phrases that refer to bad luck or death should be avoided, as they may be interpreted as inauspicious. In addition, the use of “the past year” in messages is usually phrased carefully to avoid any negative connotation. Positive sentiments about the future are emphasized, reinforcing the hopeful and optimistic nature of the holiday.
Nengajo and the Workplace
In the business world, sending nengajo is considered a vital practice, especially between companies, clients, and partners. It strengthens relationships and fosters goodwill for the upcoming year. The cards are typically more formal and may include the company’s logo, offering not only New Year’s wishes but also conveying a sense of gratitude for the business relationship.
In some workplaces, there are even communal efforts to ensure that all employees participate in the tradition, contributing to a collective sense of unity and professionalism. Companies often allocate a portion of their budget to send nengajo to their clients, suppliers, and business partners. It is common to receive hundreds of nengajo from clients, partners, and colleagues during the New Year season, and responding to these cards is considered polite and necessary.
Digital Nengajo
In recent years, the tradition of nengajo has faced challenges due to the growing use of digital communication. Many people, especially the younger generation, have shifted to sending electronic New Year’s greetings via email or social media. This digital shift is often seen as more convenient and environmentally friendly. Some companies even send digital nengajo to their clients and customers, making use of websites and apps that allow for personalized, digital card designs.
Despite this trend, traditional paper nengajo remains highly popular, especially among older generations and in rural areas where traditional customs hold a stronger influence. The tactile nature of a physical card, along with its cultural significance, ensures that the practice continues to be widely embraced in Japan.
Nengajo and Its Connection to Japanese New Year Celebrations
Sending nengajo is not just about exchanging greetings—it is closely tied to the customs surrounding Shogatsu, the Japanese New Year. Shogatsu is a time for family gatherings, feasts, and visiting shrines, and nengajo is an essential part of the larger holiday experience. It is common for Japanese families to display nengajo they have received, placing them on a prominent surface in their homes, often near the entrance or on a New Year’s altar. This display reflects the spirit of the holiday—showing appreciation for family, friends, and colleagues, and celebrating the fresh start that comes with the new year.
Conclusion
The tradition of sending nengajo in Japan is much more than just an exchange of cards. It is an expression of gratitude, good wishes, and respect, serving as an important social ritual that connects individuals and communities. While the practice has evolved with modern technology, the cultural significance of nengajo continues to be cherished in Japan. Whether sent by mail or digitally, these cards remain an enduring symbol of Japan’s deep-rooted customs and its reverence for new beginnings and the people who make them meaningful.
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