Kickstart 2026 with Japanese Inspiration

January is a season of fresh beginnings—a time to set goals, plan for the year ahead, and embrace the excitement of a new chapter. At MONO JAPAN Store, we’ve curated a selection of Japanese items to help you start 2026 with positivity and purpose.

In Japan, 2026 is the Year of the Horse—symbolizing energy, progress, and forward momentum. To celebrate this spirited zodiac year, we’re offering special Horse-themed paper-mâché figures and charming paper balloons, perfect for bringing a sense of vitality and good fortune into your home or workspace.

Explore traditional lucky items used to celebrate the New Year in Japan, Daruma dolls to support your goal-setting journey. Make your fresh start meaningful and enjoyable with these thoughtfully selected Japanese treasures.

Let’s make 2026 a year full of happiness, progress, and success together!

Sea Bream (Tai)

Sea bream is a symbol of good fortune and celebration in Japan.
Its name sounds like medetai (auspicious, joyful), and it has long been associated with happy occasions such as New Year celebrations, weddings, and milestones. Tai represents prosperity, happiness, and success.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji symbolizes good luck, achievement, and protection.
As Japan’s highest and most iconic mountain, it represents strength, stability, and the fulfillment of goals. Images of Mount Fuji — especially the Red Fuji (Aka-Fuji) — are traditionally believed to bring good fortune and are popular New Year motifs.

Maneki-neko (Beckoning Cat)

The Maneki-neko is a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and welcoming positive opportunities.
With its raised paw, it is believed to invite good fortune, customers, and happiness. Maneki-neko has long been cherished as a lucky charm for homes, shops, and as a thoughtful gift to wish success and abundance.

Pine (Matsu)

The pine tree symbolizes longevity, resilience, and steadfastness.
Because pines stay green throughout the winter, they represent enduring strength, good health, and a long life. Pine is often used in New Year decorations and celebratory settings to wish lasting prosperity.

Plum Blossom (Ume)

Plum blossoms symbolize renewal, hope, and perseverance. They are among the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, even in the cold, making them a powerful symbol of new beginnings and quiet strength. Plum motifs are traditionally associated with good fortune and a fresh start.

Together, pine and plum are frequently used as auspicious motifs to celebrate the New Year, milestones, and meaningful gifts — expressing wishes for resilience, renewal, and happiness.