Japan and the Lunisolar New Year
Key Facts
Section titled “Key Facts”- Japan used the Chinese lunisolar calendar for centuries.
- In 1873, Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar.
- Modern Japan does not observe the lunisolar New Year as a national holiday.
Historical Use
Section titled “Historical Use”Japanese courts adopted Chinese calendrical astronomy.
The New Year followed the same winter-solstice-based new moon rule.
1873 Reform
Section titled “1873 Reform”Japan officially adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1873 (Meiji 6).
January 1 became the official New Year.
Modern Status
Section titled “Modern Status”The lunisolar New Year is not a national public holiday in modern Japan.
For transmission history: Transmission of the Chinese Calendar