What happens in Japan at the end of year?
Getting Ready for the New Year
In Japan, the end of the year is a busy and exciting time. Families prepare for the New Year by doing a big cleaning called “Oosouji.” They clean every corner of their homes to welcome the New Year with a fresh and tidy space. It’s a way to clear out old things and bad luck, making room for happiness in the coming year.
After cleaning, people put up special decorations like “Kadomatsu” (bamboo and pine decorations) or “Shimenawa” (straw ropes). These decorations are meant to invite good spirits into the home and keep bad ones away.
Sharing the Last Meal of the Year
On December 31, called “Omisoka,” families gather to enjoy a meal together. A popular dish on this day is “Toshikoshi Soba,” which means “year-crossing noodles.” These long noodles symbolize a long life and are eaten to bring good fortune.
Many people also watch TV programs with their family on New Year’s Eve. One famous show is “Kouhaku Uta Gassen,” a music contest featuring Japan’s top singers. Some families prefer a quiet evening, reflecting on the year and spending time together.
Visiting Temples for a Fresh Start
When the clock strikes midnight, some people visit temples or shrines to celebrate the New Year. This is called “Hatsumode,” the first shrine visit of the year. At temples, people listen to “Joya no Kane,” the ringing of bells 108 times. This number represents human desires, and the bells are rung to clear away these desires for a fresh start.
At shrines, people pray for health, happiness, and success in the coming year. Some buy lucky charms called “Omamori” to carry with them throughout the year.
Exchanging Good Wishes
The end of the year is also a time to send “Nengajo,” or New Year’s cards. These are postcards sent to friends, family, and coworkers, often decorated with the zodiac animal of the coming year. It’s a way to say thank you for the past year and wish them well for the next.
Celebrate with Japanese Sake
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To end the year in a warm and cheerful way, many people drink Japanese sake. A wonderful choice for the occasion is “ TSUKASABOTAN SENCHU HASSAKU”. Elegant aroma of young banana and apple with a touch of marshmallow and milk. Very clean dry sake with elegant savoury flavour. This sake has a smooth and clear taste, perfect for enjoying with family and friends. It’s a lovely way to toast to the past year and welcome the next one.
The end of the year in Japan is a time for family, tradition, and starting fresh. Whether you’re cleaning your home, eating Toshikoshi Soba, or sipping sake, it’s all about saying goodbye to the old year and welcoming the new one with hope and happiness.
