The background buzzing of the television countdown while having a reunion dinner with your loved ones may be a typical experience in Singapore. In this special edition, let us bring you through an eye-opening cultural experience celebrating New Year’s in Shiga Prefecture, Japan.

The Traditions

Unlike Singapore, fireworks at midnight remain uncommon in most parts of Japan. Instead, locals crowd at shrines and temples on New Years’ Eve to witness the “Joya No Kane” bell ring 108 times. The ringing of the bell is said to carry over the good luck from the previous year. Many will also catch the first sunrise of the year too, a practice called “Hatsuhinode”, which is meant to be auspicious.

On the first of January, also known as “Shōgatsu”, it is a tradition to eat Osechi Ryori, a special dish made to welcome the New Year gods (Toshigami). It is similar to the bento box concept, but with symbolic, preserved ingredients inside multi-tiered lacquered boxes called “Jubako” instead. It is said that the act of stacking the “Jubako” signifies “piling up happiness and good luck”.

This dish is prepared by housewives around three to five days prior to the New Year so that they can immerse themselves in the festivities and take a good rest. It is also said that the tradition began so as to not disturb the New Year gods with the sound of cooking.

Subsequently, many will visit a Buddhist temple or shrine to pray for good health, fortune, and happiness for the new year. This practice is called “Hatsumode”, the very first visit to the shrine or temple in the new year. Interestingly, there is also a set of steps for praying! 

Interested in finding out more? Watch the video to immerse yourself in the festivities of the New Year holiday in Japan!

Akemashite omedetougozaimasu! Happy New Year!