The New Year in Japan takes place on the first of January every year. It is popularly known as ‘shogatsu’ or ‘oshogatsu’ in Japanese. The onset of the New Year is one of the most celebrated festivals in the country. It is the time for people to come together and meet their near and dear ones and involve everyone else in the merrymaking. The festivities attached to the New Year in Japan have a touch of tradition as well. Thus in a whole you can experience Japan at its best if you happen to be here during the New Year time.
On January first, the New Year Day in Japan the entire city is infused with a different kind of vigor. And under its effect the Japanese leave behind there worries of the past year and indulge in unlimited fun. The entire country is decorated in the best possible manner. Be it the shops or the home, pine trees and plum adorn all. People make an effort to clean their homes and set the atmosphere to graciously welcome the good wishes that come with the onset of brand new year. In fact the day of New Year in Japan is considered to be the luckiest of occasion. Thus the locals avoid keeping any pending work for that day and start afresh. And this is another reason why they ‘bonenkai parties’, a part for forgetting the woes of the past year. New Year in Japan is also started with a visit to the temple.
Food is quite an integral part of the Japan New Year and they prepare some items especially for that day. Some important dishes savored on this day are the osechi-ryori, ozoni, fish cakes, simmered burdock root as well as soybean. A New Year feast can also include sushi and sashimi. Making rice cakes, giving money to the young, playing games and so on is also a part of the celebration of New Year in Japan.
travel.mapsofworld.com. provides online information on New Year in Japan and helps you have a fulfilling Japan Tour.
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