Japanese New Year: Preparation Starts with Osoji (The Great Cleaning)

Once Christmas ends, the streets of Japan transform almost overnight. The Christmas trees and sparkling illuminations that brighten the city until December 25th vanish, and by the very next day, they are replaced with traditional New Year decorations like Kadomatsu (pine arrangements) and Shimekazari (sacred straw ropes). This dramatic change in scenery within just a few days is a unique seasonal tradition in Japan.

Osoji: Cleansing the Impurities of the Year

As December draws to a close, the topic of Osoji (Great Cleaning) begins trending on social media. In Japan, there is a long-standing custom of thoroughly cleaning homes and workplaces before the New Year to sweep away the "impurities" of the past year.

The origin of this tradition lies in preparing a pure and clean environment to welcome Toshigami-sama, the deity believed to bring happiness and a bountiful harvest in the coming year. Therefore, Osoji is not merely a chore; it holds significance as a meaningful ritual.

This practice extends beyond homes and is also observed in schools. Students divide tasks to clean classrooms, hallways, and shared spaces, sweeping, wiping, and organizing everything more meticulously than usual.

I myself participated in Osoji at school every year until I graduated high school. To be honest, back then, I often felt it was "a bit of a hassle." However, habits have a way of sticking with us. Now that I am an adult, if I neglect my home's Osoji, I feel restless and end up regretting it later. That’s why I plan ahead to clean thoroughly each year!

Give Your Bags a "New Year Prep" Too: Daily Tool Maintenance

Why not take this opportunity to care for the bags you use every day, just as you do for your home and office? Dust and small debris tend to accumulate in the bottom corners, inside pockets, and around the zipper bases.

• Brush and Vacuum: Simply brushing out fine dust and lightly vacuuming can make a huge difference.
  

• Genuine Leather Care: If your favorite bag is made of natural leather (without waterproof treatment), check for dryness. Gently apply a small amount of leather cream with a soft cloth to moisturize the leather and preserve it, keeping your bag in excellent condition for years.
  
  

A well-cared-for bag can make you feel as if your mind has been refreshed and ready for a fresh start.

Welcoming the New Year with a Clear Mind

Osoji is not just about cleaning objects; it is also a time to organize oneself. When your surroundings are tidy, your mindset naturally becomes more positive. The Japanese year-end scenery reflects this quiet determination: "Cleanse everything to welcome the New Year fresh."

Why not step into the New Year—whether commuting or going out—with a beautifully cleaned bag in hand?

Finally, I would like to close with a standard Japanese year-end greeting.
Wishing you a wonderful New Year!