Happy New Year, everyone!
Today, we would like to introduce Hatsumoude, one of Japan’s most important New Year traditions, to foreign residents.
Hatsumoude is the Japanese custom of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the New Year.
Many people visit shrines or temples during the first week of January to pray for good health, success in studies, work, love, and happiness for the year ahead.
After praying, it is also popular to draw an omikuji (fortune slip) to see your luck for the year.
Hatsumoude is a great way to casually experience the New Year atmosphere in Japan.