Japan's New Year's Day

Japan's New Year's Day, known as "Oshogatsu," is a festive celebration marking the start of the new year. Families gather on New Year's Day for a special meal, "osechi ryori," filled with symbolic dishes. At midnight, temples and shrines ring bells 108 times, symbolizing earthly desires in Buddhism. The first shrine visit, "hatsumode," is a tradition where people pray for health and prosperity.

"Hatsuhinode," the first sunrise, is considered auspicious, and homes are adorned with symbolic items like "kagami mochi" and "shimenawa" for good fortune. Children receive "otoshidama," New Year's gift money, expressing gratitude. Traditional games like "hanetsuki" and "kemari" are enjoyed.