Hello Everyone!
The Christmas tree was also put away, and the atmosphere of the town changed towards the end of the year.
So today, I would like to introduce a traditional event that is held in Japan at the end of the year.
Learn more about Japan and share it with your friends and family!

①Kotokoto Osame (beginning of things) [December 8th]
It is the last day for those who are engaged in agricultural work to do their last job for the year.
It is said that preparations for the New Year’s season begin on this day.
Depending on the local chiho (regional chiiki), there is also a place called “the beginning of things”.

(2) Susuharai no Hi (December 13th)
It’s a big cleaning day to remove the dust that has accumulated over the year.

③ New Year’s ginger decorations (Kadomatsu, Shimenawa rope, Kagamimochi) [December 13th to December 28th]
In Japan, after cleaning the house thoroughly, it is customary to decorate the house in order to invite the gods to the clean house.
These are kadomatsu, shimenawa rope, and kagamimochi.

④ New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Eve Koshi Soba [December 31st]
In Japan, December 31st is called Oomisoka. This represents the last day of his first year.
Also, eating New Year’s Eve Koshi soba on New Year’s Eve is just a traditional Japanese tradition.
Toshikoshi Koshi Soba was introduced last year, so please see here.
→ December 28th, 2021 “What to eat at the end of the year in Japan! 』

⑤ New Year’s Eve Joya no Kane Kane [December 31st]
On New Year’s Eve, around the time the date changes, temple bells begin to ring on New Year’s Eve.
This bell is to ring 108 times, representing the number of worldly desires of human beings.
It is said that we should get rid of worldly desires and welcome the new year with a clean heart.
*Bonno bonno = Desire for something, wanting to do something, such as “greedy” and “anger” toward people.

Japan has incorporated various events that are held overseas.
This year-end Nenmatsu is done in a unique Japanese way (traditional dento).
While you are in Japan, why don’t you try to experience what Japan does at the end of the year?