Traditional Japanese end-of-year deep cleaning

As December enters its final phase, Japan collectively enters deep cleaning mode. From family homes to offices, schools and even community shops, the end of the year is marked by wake up — A thorough ritual cleanse designed to wrap up the past 12 months and prepare for a new beginning.

More than just a practical chore, oosoji is a cultural practice that blends Shinto ideals of purification with the modern desire to start January feeling organized and refreshed.

The culture of Daisoji Temple

Oosoji, literally meaning “Great Cleansing,” traditionally begins around December 13, a date that was once associated with SusumaraiIt was originally a court ceremony to clear the palace of soot before the New Year. By the Edo period, this custom had spread to ordinary people and became an important part of year-end life, and it is still frequently performed in temples today.

Unlike daily organization, oosoji is comprehensive and thorough. Now’s the time to clean up often-neglected areas—behind furniture, inside cabinets, along window tracks—and remove the clutter that’s accumulated throughout the year. Symbolically, this physical reset helps create space for Suishin, the New Year god believed to bring good luck, health, and prosperity.

Today, Daishuji Temple remains a common experience in Japanese society. Schools often schedule cleaning days before winter break, companies set aside time for employees to tidy up their offices together, and families make it a family affair. Welcoming the New Year with a clean space is widely considered good manners and good luck.

Practical Daisouji Tips for Living in Tokyo

Although the tradition is centuries old, Daisoji easily adapts to modern city life, especially in Tokyo’s compact apartments. If you want to participate in oosoji yourself, here are some tips; a little strategy goes a long way.

Tidy up before cleaning

Oosoji is all about letting go, like clearing away dust. Clothes, books and household items that no longer serve you can be recycled, donated or sold. Check out our guide Recycle and second hand store In Tokyo, learn about downsizing tips before January.

Start small and work smart

Rather than trying everything in one grueling day, many people break up their bulk into different areas over several days. Cleaning from top to bottom or from room to room can prevent exhaustion and save time.

Focus on “hiding” dirt

Window bars, air conditioning filters, bathroom vents and kitchen exhaust fans are all classic oosoji targets. These areas won’t draw much attention throughout the year, but will make a noticeable difference once cleaned.

Completed before New Year’s Eve

Traditionally, cleaning is completed by December 31st. Cleansing is avoided on New Year’s Day as it is believed that it will sweep away upcoming good luck. Once the oosoji is completed, the focus shifts to rest and celebrating the new year with family and friends.

In a city that rarely slows down, the Great Grass Road is a rare collective pause. Whether you ring in the new year with full traditional enthusiasm or with a simple, apartment-friendly approach, the act of clearing away the old year is one of Japan’s most enduring and satisfying rituals.

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