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EveryParampara

Hatsumode

The first visit to a shrine or temple in the new year in Japan.

A pattern drawn for this page, not a picture of Hatsumode.

Also: first shrine visit

Hatsumode is the first visit to a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple in the new year, made in the first three days of January. Millions of people queue at Meiji Shrine and other large sites, in coats and sometimes kimono, to pray for health and luck, buy a new amulet and draw a fortune slip, omikuji. Old charms from the previous year are returned to be burned. Stalls sell food such as grilled squid and amazake, a sweet rice drink. Some families go at midnight, after hearing the 108 temple bell rings, while others go quietly on the first morning.

Region: East Asia

See also

OmamoriOmikujiKimono

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