Differences Between New Year’s Holidays Abroad and Japan
I’ve been spending the New Year’s holidays with my family overseas for the past few years.
Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, we spent New Year’s Eve in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The condominium I rented was in an Indian neighborhood, and there was an Islamic prayer hall nearby.
Before the New Year’s Eve countdown began, the Islamic adhan was played and a huge number of fireworks were launched.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, we spent New Year’s Eve in Bangkok.
Since Thailand is a Buddhist country, there was no adhan, of course, but the countdown fireworks and firecrackers were spectacular.
In contrast to these countries, Japan celebrates New Year’s Eve very quietly.
Of course, there are places where it’s more lavish.
It’s a Japanese New Year’s tradition to write and send New Year’s cards.
Recently, it seems that people are increasingly sending New Year’s greetings via email or LINE, and the number of people writing New Year’s cards is decreasing.
As for New Year’s cards, if a family member has passed away, you should refrain from sending them as a sign of mourning.
Sending cards at Christmas, as is the case overseas, is the same system as sending New Year’s cards in Japan.
