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Navigating Japan’s New Year Closures: Essential ATMs, Food, & Emergency Services

Planning a trip to Japan around the New Year? You’re in for a unique cultural experience, but also a period of widespread closures that can catch even seasoned travelers off guard. The unexpected inability to access cash, find a simple meal, or get non-emergency medical help can quickly turn excitement into frustration.

This guide removes that friction. As your local fixer, I’ll provide actionable, on-the-ground information to navigate Japan’s New Year (Oshogatsu) holiday period, specifically focusing on ATMs, food, and emergency services. Be prepared, stay fed, and access vital support, ensuring your visit remains smooth and enjoyable.

Understanding Japan’s New Year Holiday (Oshogatsu)

Oshogatsu (お正月) is Japan’s most significant holiday, a time for family gatherings, traditional meals, and shrine visits (Hatsumode). Unlike Western New Year celebrations, it’s a multi-day observance, deeply rooted in tradition, which directly impacts daily life for visitors.

When to Expect Closures

The core New Year holiday period typically runs from December 29th or 30th through January 3rd or 4th. While some larger establishments might have reduced hours, many businesses, especially small and independent ones, will close completely during these dates. January 1st (Ganjitsu) is the most significant closure day, with the vast majority of non-essential services, banks, and many restaurants and shops completely shut down. Expect closures to extend to December 31st and January 2nd/3rd in many areas.

It’s important to remember that this isn’t just a single-day event; it’s a cultural pause. Anticipate reduced service levels and closures for several days consecutively.

Why Businesses Close

Businesses close for Oshogatsu to allow staff to celebrate with their families, observe traditional customs, and prepare for the new year. This collective downtime ensures everyone has the opportunity to participate in this vital cultural event. Understanding this cultural context can help foster patience and reduce frustration when encountering unexpected closures.

🎯 Local Pro-Tip: Check the operating hours of specific stores, restaurants, and attractions you plan to visit before December 29th. Information may be posted on their websites, social media, or at their physical locations. Look for signs indicating ‘年末年始休業’ (nenmatsu nenshi kyūgyō) which means ‘New Year holiday closure.’

Accessing Cash: Your Guide to ATMs During Oshogatsu

Despite Japan’s increasing adoption of cashless payment methods, cash remains vital, especially outside major cities and in smaller establishments. During the New Year holiday, your ability to access cash can be severely restricted.

The Problem: Main Banks are Closed

Most major Japanese bank ATMs (e.g., MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho) will be closed or have severely restricted hours from December 31st to January 3rd. Crucially, many of these ATMs do not accept foreign cards even when they are operational. Bank teller windows (窓口 – madoguchi) will almost certainly be closed throughout the holiday, even if the ATM vestibule remains accessible.

The Solution: Reliable ATM Networks

Your lifeline for cash during Oshogatsu will be specific ATM networks known for their international card compatibility and extended operating hours:

1. Convenience Store ATMs: These are generally the most reliable for international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus) and often operate 24/7.
   • 7-Bank ATMs (7-Eleven): Widely available in 7-Eleven stores nationwide. Look for bright green signs indicating “7-Bank” or “ATM.” Use the 7-Bank ATM Locator.
   • E-net ATMs (FamilyMart): Found in FamilyMart stores.
   • Lawson Bank ATMs (Lawson): Available in Lawson stores.

   While generally 24/7, some convenience store ATMs may have brief maintenance windows, typically in the very early morning hours.

   

2. Japan Post Bank ATMs: Found in post offices and some supermarkets. While post offices often close, some ATMs located inside 7-Eleven stores or large shopping malls might still be accessible. Use the Japan Post Bank ATM Search to verify locations and hours.

Actionable Steps for Cash Access

1. Withdraw Sufficient Cash EARLY: This is your most critical step. Withdraw enough cash BEFORE December 29th or 30th to cover expected expenses for at least 4-5 days, including transportation, meals, and emergencies. Err on the side of having too much cash.
2. Identify Convenient ATM Locations: Before the holiday, use the official ATM locators (7-Bank, Japan Post Bank) to pinpoint multiple ATMs near your accommodation and planned activities. Note down their specific locations or save them on a map app.
3. Carry Multiple Cards: Always travel with more than one credit/debit card. If one card fails or an ATM network is down, you have a backup.
4. Inform Your Bank: Notify your home bank of your travel dates to Japan to prevent them from flagging your transactions as suspicious and blocking your card.

Food & Provisions: Staying Fed When Shops Close

The thought of going hungry during a holiday is a common concern. While many beloved independent restaurants and large supermarkets will close, viable options remain.

Your Lifeline: Convenience Stores

Convenience stores (konbini) are truly your lifeline during the New Year period. 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson locations remain open 24/7 nationwide throughout the holiday. They offer a reliable range of food and basic necessities:

• Pre-made meals: Onigiri (rice balls), bento boxes, sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes.
• Hot food: Fried chicken, oden (a winter stew), steamed buns (nikuman).
• Snacks & Drinks: Chips, chocolates, various beverages, coffee.
• Basic groceries: Milk, bread, eggs, instant noodles.
• Other necessities: Toiletries, simple over-the-counter medicines.

While selection might be slightly reduced due to holiday staffing, you will always find something to eat. Be aware that popular items can sell out quickly, so consider buying a bit extra if you find something you like.

Supermarkets & Restaurants: What to Expect

• Supermarkets: Most large supermarkets (e.g., Aeon, Ito-Yokado, Seiyu) will close for at least 1-3 days, typically January 1st-3rd. Some might close earlier on December 31st and reopen with limited hours around January 4th. Stock up on any specific groceries or fresh produce you need before December 30th.

  

• Chain Restaurants: Major chain restaurants (e.g., McDonald’s, Yoshinoya, Sukiya, Gusto, Mos Burger) are your best bet for sit-down meals. They are more likely to be open or operate with slightly reduced hours compared to independent restaurants, which often close completely for several days. Expect potentially longer wait times at open establishments.
• Independent Restaurants: Assume most smaller, independent restaurants, cafes, and specialized eateries will be closed. If there’s a specific place you want to visit, check their website or social media for holiday hours well in advance.

Planning Your Meals

1. Stock Up: Purchase non-perishable snacks, drinks, and easy-to-prepare items from a supermarket before December 30th.
2. Research Chains: Identify major chain restaurants near your accommodation. Many have English websites where you can check holiday hours.
3. Embrace Konbini: Be prepared to rely on convenience stores for several meals. They offer surprisingly good quality and variety.
4. Hotel Food: If staying at a hotel, inquire about their restaurant’s New Year operating hours and any special holiday menus.

🎯 Local Pro-Tip: While many places are closed, some tourist-heavy areas (e.g., major train stations, large shopping malls in big cities, popular theme parks like Tokyo Disney Resort) might have more open restaurants or food stalls. These will likely be crowded.

Medical & Emergency Services: Navigating Health Needs

Your health and safety are paramount. Knowing how to access medical help during the New Year holiday, when regular clinics and pharmacies are closed, is crucial.

True Emergencies: Dial 119

For genuine medical emergencies or fire, dial 119 for an ambulance (kyūkyūsha, 救急車) or fire services. For police assistance, dial 110. These services operate 24/7, regardless of holidays.

Important: Be prepared for potential language barriers. While some operators may have limited English support, speaking slowly and clearly, and having key phrases or a translation app ready, can be vital. State your location and the nature of the emergency clearly.

Non-Emergency Medical Care & Pharmacies

For non-emergencies (e.g., a cold, minor injury, needing a prescription refill), finding an open clinic or pharmacy during New Year can be extremely difficult:

• Hospitals: Major hospitals in larger cities will have emergency departments open 24/7 throughout the New Year. However, these departments are for emergencies. Attending for a non-emergency could result in long waits and higher fees.

  

• Clinics & Pharmacies: Pharmacies not directly attached to major hospitals are highly likely to be closed. Most smaller clinics will also be closed.

Essential Medical Preparedness

1. Prescription Medications: Ensure you have an adequate supply of any necessary prescription medications to last well beyond the holiday period. Bring copies of your prescriptions.
2. Basic First-Aid Kit: Pack a small kit with pain relievers, cold medicine, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal over-the-counter medications you frequently use.
3. Travel Insurance: Have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential evacuation. Know your policy number and emergency contact information.
4. JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline: For assistance locating English-speaking medical facilities or getting general travel advice, contact the JNTO Japan Visitor Hotline (details below). They can be a valuable resource for non-emergency situations.
5. Translation Apps: Download offline translation apps (e.g., Google Translate, DeepL) on your phone. These can be crucial for communicating symptoms or understanding medical instructions if you encounter a language barrier.

Crucial Resources & Pro-Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming “Business as Usual”: Do not expect all services to operate normally. Japan’s New Year is a serious holiday.
• Underestimating Cash Needs: Relying solely on credit cards is risky, especially outside major cities. Always have ample cash.
• Ignoring Advance Planning: Waiting until December 31st to withdraw cash or buy groceries will lead to stress.
• Not Checking Operating Hours: Even open establishments might have reduced hours. Always verify.
• Underestimating Travel Crowds: Public transportation, especially intercity, can be very crowded as domestic travelers visit family or shrines. Book tickets well in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Navigating Japan’s New Year closures requires preparation, but with the right information, you can avoid common pitfalls. By prioritizing cash withdrawals, knowing your food options, and understanding how to access emergency services, you ensure a smoother experience. Embrace the unique cultural aspects of Oshogatsu, and you’ll find it an enriching time to visit.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy your time in Japan.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information based on typical operating patterns during Japan’s New Year holiday. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, specific operating hours and availability of services can vary by location and year. Always verify information directly with businesses or official sources closer to your travel dates. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical, financial, or legal advice.