Osechi: traditional new-year dishes in Japan
Most Japanese people enjoy special new-year dishes called “Osechi” during the first three days of January. “Osechi” includes a lot of food that can be kept for a long time. This means people can also relax a little during the holiday. Although there are some regional differences in the contents of osechi, most of […]
New Year’s Decorations in Japan
Many Japanese have decorations for new years. 1. Kadomatu (かどまつ, 門松) “Kadomatsu” are a pair of pine decorations which are placed in front of the gates of houses and buildings from January 1st to the 7th. “Kadomatsu” usually consist of three bamboo poles of different lengths which are cut diagonally. Pine tree branches and sprays […]
New year Sale & lucky bags in Japan!
If you are a shopping lover, don’t miss “New year sale” in japan. Almost of all department stores and shopping malls start it from 2nd or 3rd of the the new year. Sale 20-50% off! Great chance for shopping!! But if you hate “crowded”, I recommend not to go to sales on […]
Hatsumode; New Year’s visit to a shrine
Happy New Year! Hope this year is going to be a great year for you! In Japan, we have a custom called “Hatsumode” (はつもうで, 初詣). “Hatsumode” means New Year’s visits to shrines (recently visiting temples also is ok) and many people visit shrines to pray for happiness and a healthy year. Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, […]
Illuminated Tokyo City
Streets in Tokyo are illuminated now, during Christmas and new year. At Tokyo International Forum in Yurakucho station, A Christmas market is being held to 25th Dec. www.t-i-forum.co.jp/noel/ (Japanese) We can enjoy food, beer, Christmas decorations from Strasbourg, France and see a very beautiful tree :) At […]