Welcome to the Japan Shogatsu Association℠. We are the leading organization dedicated to celebrating, preserving, and globally promoting the rich essence of the Japanese New Year (Shogatsu). Rooted in deep tradition, we are continuously evolving to share this cherished culture with a worldwide audience.
Beyond 2025: Our Global and Forward-Looking Commitments
Our commitment to global engagement is evidenced by our success at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, where we successfully distributed AR Omikuji to approximately 4,000 visitors. This initiative provided a direct, modern experience of a core New Year tradition and helped reaffirm the cultural importance of Shogatsu to a diverse international audience.
Building on this momentum, our focus is now shifting to new horizons as we look to expand our global reach. Future initiatives and areas of concentration include promoting Japanese culture at major international events:
- Japan Expo in Paris: Working to bridge the gap between traditional culture and contemporary global interests.
- Comiket (Comic Market): Engaging with popular culture and modern Japanese media.
- 2027 International Horticultural Exhibition (Hana Haku): Laying the groundwork to ensure the spirit of renewal and celebration inherent in Shogatsu continues to bloom on the global stage.
The Significance of Japanese New Year (Shogatsu)
We, the Japan Shogatsu Association℠, aim to share the profound allure of Japan’s traditional New Year culture. While events like Christmas hold paramount importance in many Western countries, in Japan, Shogatsu has traditionally been the most significant annual event.
We recognize that this difference in cultural focus is not widely understood globally. As the leading authority, the Japan Shogatsu Association℠ is committed to illuminating the deep historical, spiritual, and communal importance of Shogatsu to the world.
Our Core Business and Offerings
月刊お正月 (Monthly Oshogatsu Free Paper – Japanese Only)
Our flagship publication is a single A4 sheet, printed double-sided, distributed as a free paper. It provides condensed, in-depth articles, historical insights, and seasonal topics dedicated entirely to the Japanese New Year.
ミスお正月 (Miss Oshogatsu Contest)
This is an Ambassador Program designed to select women dedicated to passing down the traditions of Shogatsu to the next generation. It focuses on knowledge and commitment, not a beauty contest, to find representatives who embody the spirit and essence of the Japanese New Year.
お正月検定 (Japan New Year Adviser℠ Certification Exam)
A comprehensive program equipping individuals with in-depth knowledge of Shogatsu traditions. Certification enables advisors to confidently guide others in experiencing this festive period.
ARおみくじ (AR Omikuji – Augmented Reality Fortune Slips)
Utilizing AR technology, we provide an innovative, multilingual experience for the traditional fortune slip. This feature ensures that the spiritual practice of Omikuji is accessible and understandable to non-Japanese speakers globally.
Japanese Cultural T-Shirts (Stylish and Sustainable Apparel)
We design and sell unique T-shirts, such as the “Hatsu-Yume Vibes” collection. These garments feature designs inspired by traditional New Year symbols (like Ichifuji Nitaka Sansuboshi), are crafted from eco-friendly organic cotton, and blend cultural heritage with sustainable contemporary fashion.
Our Foundation and Leadership
Based in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, the Japan Shogatsu Association℠ is led by Mr. Yuta Imanari, also known as “Mr. Oshogatsu.” As a passionate advocate and YouTuber, Mr. Imanari’s extensive knowledge and expertise are central to the association’s mission of expanding its reach and creating meaningful cultural experiences worldwide.
Embrace the Spirit of Shogatsu
We invite you to join us in celebrating the beauty and traditions of the Japanese New Year. Through our captivating events and insightful resources, the Japan Shogatsu Association℠ is dedicated to enriching your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable cultural legacy.
Contact Us:
For inquiries, collaborations, and further information, please reach out to:
Japan Shogatsu Association℠
Address: 1623-2 Ishihara, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Inquiry form: from here
Embrace the spirit of renewal, gratitude, and joy as we journey together through the remarkable world of the Japanese New Year. Let us unite and share the magic of this time-honored celebration with the global community.