Crafting ‘Happy New Year’ in Japanese- A Guide to Writing the Season’s Greetings in Kanji and Katakana
How do you write “Happy New Year” in Japanese? Celebrating the New Year is a time-honored tradition in Japan, and the language used to convey this festive greeting is rich in cultural significance. Whether you’re writing a card, sending a message, or simply want to impress your Japanese friends, knowing how to express this sentiment in Japanese is both useful and delightful.
The phrase “Happy New Year” in Japanese is written as “新年の祝儀” (Shinnen no shukui). This phrase is often used in formal settings, such as in business cards or formal invitations. However, if you’re looking for a more casual way to say “Happy New Year,” you can use “明けましておめでとうございます” (Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu). This is a common greeting that can be used among friends and family.
Another popular way to say “Happy New Year” in Japanese is “お正月おめでとうございます” (Oshogatsu omedetou gozaimasu). This phrase is specifically used to wish someone a happy New Year, and it’s often seen in New Year’s cards and messages.
In addition to written greetings, there are also various ways to express the New Year’s wishes in Japanese through traditional customs. For example, “福を招きましょう” (Fuku o mukidashou) means “Let’s invite happiness,” and “幸せを祈ります” (Shiawase o inai masu) means “I pray for happiness.” These phrases can be used in conversations or even in New Year’s decorations.
Remember that in Japanese culture, it’s important to be polite and respectful, especially during the New Year celebrations. When writing “Happy New Year” in Japanese, make sure to use the correct honorifics and to express your wishes with sincerity.
In conclusion, knowing how to write “Happy New Year” in Japanese can help you connect with the local culture and show appreciation for the festive season. Whether you choose to use “Shinnen no shukui,” “Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu,” or “Oshogatsu omedetou gozaimasu,” remember to convey your wishes with warmth and respect. Happy New Year!
