Translation guide
How to say 'Happy New Year' in Japanese depends on the timing and context. Before the new year begins, you use one phrase; after it starts, you use another. There are also casual and written variations.
Wishing someone a happy new year before January 1st, typically in late December.
Standard phrase used before the new year begins. It literally means 'Have a good year.'
Thank you for everything this year. Happy New Year.
A more polite and formal version, suitable for business or elders.
I look forward to working with you next year as well. Please have a happy new year.
Greeting someone with 'Happy New Year' after January 1st, usually during the first few days or weeks of the year.
The standard polite greeting after the new year has begun. Often combined with 今年もよろしくお願いします.
Happy New Year. I look forward to your continued friendship this year.
Casual version used among friends and family.
A slightly more formal alternative, often used in writing or announcements.
Very casual slang abbreviation of 明けましておめでとう, used mainly in texting or among young people.
Writing 'Happy New Year' on a nengajō (New Year's postcard).
Do not use 明けましておめでとう before January 1st, and do not use 良いお年を after the new year has begun. Mixing them up can sound odd.
Saying 'Akemashite omedetō' on December 31st is unnatural.
After the new year, it is very common to follow 明けましておめでとうございます with 今年もよろしくお願いします (casual: 今年もよろしく). This expresses hope for continued good relations.
Happy New Year! Let's hang out again this year.
Happy New Year. We look forward to your continued support this year.
Happy New Year! Let's be friends this year too!
Happy New Year. I look forward to your continued friendship this year.