In Japan, the practice of sending New Year’s cards, known as “nengajo,” is a deeply rooted tradition that serves as a way to express gratitude and maintain social connections as the new year begins.
However, a recent cultural shift has given rise to the concept of “nengajojimai,” which translates to the cessation of this annual exchange.
This practice is not merely a personal choice but a reflection of broader societal changes and the evolution of communication methods.
“Nengajojimai” is often a decision made by individuals who, for various reasons such as age or lifestyle changes, choose to formally announce the end of their participation in this custom.
It is a significant step, symbolizing a respectful withdrawal from the yearly ritual of exchanging well-wishes.
This decision is usually communicated through a final nengajo, which conveys the sender’s intention to discontinue the tradition moving forward.
The reasons for “nengajojimai” can be diverse.
For some, it is a part of “shūkatsu” or end-of-life preparation, a thoughtful process of simplifying one’s affairs.
For others, it may be due to the physical challenges of writing and mailing cards, or a desire to embrace digital communication methods that offer instant and convenient contact.
Due to the increase in postage rates in October 2024, many Japanese will likely stop sending New Year’s cards in 2025.
Despite the practical reasons for choosing “nengajojimai,” the decision is often accompanied by a sense of melancholy and nostalgia.
The nengajo tradition has long been a symbol of connection, and its cessation can feel like a loss of a tangible link to friends and family.
However, many find solace in modern alternatives such as social media, emails, and messaging apps, which allow for continuous and often more frequent interaction.
For those considering “nengajojimai,” it is essential to approach the subject with sensitivity.
Crafting a final nengajo requires careful thought to ensure that the message is conveyed without causing offense.
It is customary to express gratitude for past kindnesses and to offer best wishes for the recipient’s health and prosperity.
The final card often includes a personal touch, such as a handwritten note, to add warmth to the farewell.
As society evolves and communication preferences shift, “nengajojimai” represents a bridge between tradition and modernity.
It acknowledges the value of the past while embracing the future’s possibilities.
For many, it is a bittersweet acknowledgment that as the world changes, so too do the ways we connect with one another.
In conclusion, “nengajojimai” is a personal yet culturally significant decision that reflects the changing dynamics of social interaction in Japan.
It is a respectful nod to tradition coupled with an acceptance of new beginnings and the continuous flow of life’s seasons.
In Japan, it is common to use services that either hand-write it yourself, make it using a computer and printer, or order it online and have it printed and delivered to your home.
