Changes coming to New Year's Shopping for 2026

One of my favorite traditions in Japan is shopping for fukubukuro at the start of the year. There's something exciting about lining up and wondering what bargains are hidden inside those lucky bags, and while these days I typically head online to pick out my favorites, it seems like in-person New Year shopping will be looking a little different at the start of 2026.

Several major department stores have announced that they'll begin their New Year sales on January 3rd instead of the 2nd. For example, Tobu Department Store will delay its first sale by one day for the first time in nearly 50 years, citing the need to improve employee working conditions and work-life balance. Tokyu Department Store will also close on January 2nd, except for a few locations, before reopening on the 3rd.

Other big names like Takashimaya, Daimaru Matsuzakaya, and Hankyu Hanshin are following the same approach. Part of the reason is labor shortages, since staffing during the holidays has become increasingly difficult. Another factor is that more sales now come from tourists visiting throughout the year, so department stores feel less pressure to concentrate everything into the New Year rush.

I honestly think this is a really worthwhile change. If it means staff can actually enjoy their own holidays, then waiting one extra day feels like a small adjustment.