Looking for birthday traditions in Japan? We’ve gathered the complete guide for Japanese birthday traditions – including how they celebrate, gifting etiquette, and traditional food and drink.
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a memorable gift experience or a thoughtful gift.
To help you explore Japanese traditions, this article is organized into:
Jump To a Section Below
Unique Birthday Traditions in Japan
Birthdays in Japan are celebrated with unique customs and traditions that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the country.
- Birthday Celebrations are New: Birthday celebrations have become common only in the last century, with pivotal birthdays for children and adults holding special significance.
- Aging on New Year’s: Before the 1950s, Japanese babies were considered one year old at birth, and everyone celebrated their aging on New Year’s Day.
- Western Culture Influence: The tradition of celebrating individual birthdays emerged. Today, birthday parties in Japan typically involve a small gathering, a birthday cake with candles, and the singing of the Happy Birthday song, which might be in English or Japanese
- Family-centric celebrations: Unlike other cultures, birthday parties often focus on immediate family with extended family gatherings happening on separate occasions.
How to Say “Happy Birthday” in Japanese?
The most common way to wish someone a happy birthday:
- 誕生日おめでとう (Tanjoubi omedetou): Happy birthday (formal)
- 誕生日おめでとうございませす (Tanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu): Very formal happy birthday
- ハッピーバースデー (Happī bāsudē): Happy birthday (English, informal)
Here are some of the best birthday wishes in Japanese:
- 今日はあなたと、あなたが素晴らしい人であることを祝う日です。お誕生日おめでとうございます！(Today is all about celebrating you and the amazing person you are. Happy birthday!)
- 特別な日に、あなたが私にとってどれだけ大切かを思い出させたいと思います。お誕生日おめでとうございます！(On your special day, I just want to remind you how much you mean to me. Happy birthday!)
- あなたを最も幸せにするすべてのもので満たされた一日をお祈りします。お誕生日おめでとうございます！(Wishing you a day filled with all the things that make you happiest. Happy birthday!)
Still haven’t found the perfect wish? Here is our full article on How to Say Happy Birthday in Japanese.
Birthday Gift Etiquette in Japan
When giving gifts in Japan, it’s important to consider cultural etiquette:
Do’s in Gifting
- Consider practical gifts like gift cards or money in decorative envelopes.
- Wrap your gift beautifully! Presentation matters a lot in Japan.
Don’ts in Gifting
- Don’t give personal items like clothing or perfumes, as it can be seen as intrusive.
- Don’t be surprised if your gift isn’t opened immediately. It’s considered polite to wait until after the celebration.
First Birthday (Hatsu-誕生日)
In Japan, the celebration of a child’s first birthday, known as “Hatsu,” is a cherished tradition. This elaborate celebration often includes a ceremony called “Mochi-kazari,” where the baby is presented with a selection of items, including toys, stationery, and symbolic objects.
One of the highlights of this ceremony is the “Mochi-kazami,” where the baby is presented with a tray containing various items, including a special rice cake known as “Mochi.” The baby is encouraged to choose an item from the tray, symbolizing their future path. This ritual holds great significance for the family as they look forward to the child’s growth and development.
Milestone Birthdays (Kanreki)
In Japanese culture, certain birthdays hold particular importance, such as reaching 60 years of age, known as “Kanreki.”
Turning 60 is considered a significant milestone in one’s life, symbolizing the completion of a full life cycle. During this milestone birthday, the individual is often honored with a traditional ceremony and may receive gifts such as a red cap symbolizing longevity and good fortune. Family gatherings are common during Kanreki celebrations, providing an opportunity for loved ones to come together and celebrate the individual’s achievements and wisdom.
Additionally, reaching ages such as 70 and 80 also come with specific traditions and customs, further highlighting the importance of aging in Japanese culture.
Quiet Birthday Wishes
In contrast to the Western tradition of blowing out candles and making a wish aloud, many Japanese individuals prefer a more subdued approach to making birthday wishes. Instead of blowing out candles, it’s common for individuals to silently make a wish and then take a bite of their birthday cake.
This quiet reflection allows individuals to focus on their inner desires and aspirations without the need for external validation or attention. It emphasizes the importance of introspection and personal growth during moments of celebration.
Lucky Numbers
As adopted from Chinese culture, certain numbers hold auspicious meanings and are considered lucky. For example, the number 8 symbolizes prosperity and wealth, while the number 9 represents longevity and good fortune.
These lucky numbers are often incorporated into birthday decorations, gifts, and celebrations to bring blessings and positive energy to the recipient. Whether it’s choosing a gift with a specific numerical significance or decorating with auspicious symbols, incorporating lucky numbers into birthday celebrations is a common practice in Japan, reflecting the cultural belief in the power of symbolism and tradition.
Conclusion
Japanese birthdays offer a unique window into a culture that values subtlety and family bonds. By understanding these traditions and etiquette tips, you can celebrate with cultural sensitivity and create a memorable experience for yourself and your loved ones.
Birthdays are filled with unique traditions and festivities. Add to the celebrations with a memorable gift experience or a thoughtful gift. So, here’s to the Japanese way of celebrating birthdays!
Sophie is an etiquette coach who has the rare ability to make the intricacies of etiquette approachable and fun. She travels around the world coaching families, individuals, corporates and independent schools. Sophie has honed her craft without losing her easy-going charm.