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The Year of the Snake 2025 — A Symbol of Wisdom and Transformatin

Jan. 16. 2025

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, Japan will welcome  in the Year of the Snake. This iconic celebration is part of the ancient tradition of the “Juunishi”, the Japanese zodiac, which plays a vital role in the country’s culture. If you’re visiting Japan during the holiday season, you’ll be surrounded by Snake-themed decorations, postcards, and charms, each symbolizing the passing of time and celebrating the deeper meanings behind this powerful zodiac sign. The Snake, known for its ability to shed its skin and grow stronger, evokes themes of rebirth, renewal, and transformation, making the Year of the Snake a perfect time to start fresh and embrace change.

 

What is the Juunishi?

The Juunishi (十二支) is a 12-year cycle in which each year is represented by an animal, each with its own unique traits and cultural significance. According to Japanese legend, the animals were chosen through a race in the heavens, and the order in which they finished determined the order of the zodiac.

 

Full Zodiac Cycle:

Animal Japanese Name Symbolic Traits Years
Rat Nezumi Clever and adaptable 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984
Ox Ushi Strong and dependable 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985
Tiger Tora Bold and fearless 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986
Rabbit Usagi Gentle and graceful 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987
Dragon Tatsu Powerful and charismatic 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988
Snake Hebi Wise and intuitive 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989
Horse Uma Energetic and free-spirited 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990
Goat Hitsuji Artistic and empathetic 2027, 2015, 2003, 1991
Monkey Saru Playful and resourceful 2028, 2016, 2004, 1992
Rooster Tori Confident and diligent 2029, 2017, 2005, 1993
Dog Inu Loyal and protective 2030, 2018, 2006, 1994
Boar Inoshishi Brave and determined 2031, 2019, 2007, 1995

 

The Legend Behind the Zodiac Animals

During the race of the Juunishi, the Snake secured its place through its strategic move, showing qualities of  intelligence, cunning, and adaptability. Known for shedding its skin and emerging renewed, the Snake symbolizes rebirth, wisdom, and transformation, making it the perfect animal to represent the start of 2025.

 

 

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Elegant Decorations

Celebrate 2025 by embracing Snake-inspired decorations that blend traditional motifs with modern design. These items pay tribute to the zodiac while adding a touch of elegance and symbolism to your home, making them the perfect way to mark the start of the new year.

 

🐍 BEAMS JAPAN Zodiac doll, Gold Snake/¥1,980


 

This snake doll is a  a collaboration between Chugai Toen, a ceramic craft manufacturer based in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture, and BEAMS JAPAN.

Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, incorporating auspicious symbols of “good fortune” (福) into the design. The attention to detail and traditional craftsmanship bring a sense of warmth and positive energy to every Zodiac doll created.

The BEAMS JAPAN logo is subtly displayed on the back, adding a modern touch to this traditional creation, making it a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary design.

 

🐍 Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Zodiac Mini Kokeshi: Snake / ¥1,980 

This Zodiac Mini Kokeshi was created in collaboration with Usaburo Kokeshi, a renowned traditional kokeshi doll maker from Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

ALTERNATE: Usaburo Kokeshi, a renowned traditional kokeshi doll maker from Gunma Prefecture, Japan collaborated with Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten to create these mini “kokeshi” dolls which are traditional Japanese wooden dolls.

Kokeshi dolls are  known for their simple, charming design and warm, handcrafted feel. This particular mini kokeshi is shaped like a small, rounded egg, perfectly sized to fit in the palm of your hand. It features a playful snake with a tiny tongue sticking out, adding a touch of whimsy to the design.

 

🐍Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Papier-Mâché Ornament: Bobblehead Snake/Large: ¥5,500  Small: ¥4,400

This Papier-Mâché Zodiac Ornament was created by Nozawa Mingei, a traditional Japanese folk toy and craft workshop.

Each snake features a charming bobblehead mechanism—when touched, its head gently sways in all directions. Every piece is carefully hand-painted by skilled artisans with meticulous brushwork that adds a warm and inviting character to the ornament.

🐍 Steiff Year of the Snake Plush/¥32,450

This limited-edition snake plush is a charming collectible adorned with pine, bamboo, and plum (shochikubai) embroidery, which are traditional Japanese motifs. Its playful expression, with its tongue sticking out, adds to its delightful charm.

The plush features a metal bead weight in its belly, allowing it to sit stably wherever you place it. Only 1,500 pieces are available, and they are sold exclusively in Asia. There’s also a store in Aoyama, so be sure to check it out! Don’t miss this adorable plush when you visit Japan!

 

Start the Year of the Snake with Elegance and Transformation

The Year of the Snake offers a chance to embrace change, growth, and wisdom. Whether you’re drawn to the Snake’s symbolism or simply want to enjoy the festive spirit of the new year, these stylish decorations are a perfect way to infuse your home with transformation and elegance.

 

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