In
Japan, where tradition lives strong, New Year is one of the most important
occasions. The holiday was originally observed according to the Chinese lunar
calendar, celebrated in time with countries such as China, Korea and Vietnam. Shortly
after the Meiji Restoration, Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar, celebrating
the arrival of New Year on January 1 from 1873 onwards.
Despite
the changed date of celebration, many of the original customs and rituals are
still observed today. January 1 is regarded as a very auspicious day, believed
to be representative of the whole year to come. Japanese households are
typically cleaned prior to New Year, quite literally allowing for a fresh start
while the day itself is spent work-free with family and friends.
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| Mallet-beaten mochi making at Hilton Niseko Village |
