In Japanese, New Year is called “Oshougatsu”.
New Year’s Day is a very important day for the Japanese people.
There are many events and customs to celebrate.
Kagami-mochi
People decorate their houses with special decorations.
“Kagami-mochi” is a decoration which has two big and small
round rice cakes. and mandarin orange on the top.
Ｈatsumoude
Many people go to shrines to make wishes for the coming year.
This event is called “Hatsumoude”.
Otoshidama
Adults put money in a special envelope and give it to children.
This is called “Otoshidama”
and many children look forward to it very much!
Osechi-ryori
“Osechi-ryori” are Japanese New Year's dishes
that are specially prepared to be eaten.
There are variety of dishes within .
Each of the dishes in osechi-ryori has some auspicious meaning
that reflects people's wishes.