In Japan, we celebrate new years day in our original way. (Please check" How does Japanese spend the end of year holiday? " ) <Praying to Sun Rise> In our culture, seeing sun rising on the 1st day of new year is very special because we believe God is rising with the sun. We thank and pray for God for the safety and healthy life. Not everyone go to see the sun rising, however many people do this every year. <Hatsumode (New Year's visit to a Shinto shrine) > On the 1st day of Jan. many Japanese go to Shinto shrine or temple to pray. I went to Kibune Shrine near my house. I draw a lottery and got Hamaya (ritual arrows to drive away devils) . Drawing a fortune slip is also popular. <New Year's Card> Instead of sending Christmas cards, we exchange New Year's card to our friends, family and business relationships. 12 characters of the year are commonly used on the cards. This year is wild boar year, so I saw
Are you looking for the best activities which you have never experienced in Japan? Are you interested in Japanese Cooking washoku? Would you like to stay at Japanese house? Yes! You’re lucky. I recommend you my place that is Washokuju Sakura!! It is the place you can have a good experience Japanese Cooking Lesson “Any Time New Year” program & Homestay.