The first sunrise
Shogatsu, or New Year, is arguably Japan's largest and most celebrated holiday. It spans three days and includes events such as Hatsumode, the first shrine visit, colorful and elaborate bento boxes eaten on New Year’s, and the observation of the year's first sunrise. The Emperor’s addresses from the palace are broadcast throughout the nation, and he addresses visitors every few hours.
Lines for some shrines in the larger cities are said to start forming from midnight and can take hours to make the front. The New Year is special and marks a whole new chapter. People go to the shrines to make wishes and pull their fortunes for the year. Charms can also be bought to protect them or loved ones throughout the coming year. A list of lucky birthdays is published and seemingly my name is in the top 50 so hopefully the odds are in my favor this year!
Participating in Japan's New Year's traditions was high on my to-do list, and I got very lucky. My hotel in Narita overlooked the runway, and my alarm woke me up fairly early. As I was scrolling through my phone, a bright light caught my attention. I was fortunate enough to witness the first sunrise of the new year! This first sunrise is believed to bring good luck, health, and happiness to those who see it, making it a very fortunate event.
My flight home was smooth, and I decided to check out Saga Shrine before heading to my place. I'm really glad I made that choice. The queue was long, but it moved quickly, and I spent less than an hour waiting. Many people were dressed in kimonos, and some had brought charms from their visit last year. It is sometimes a tradition to return last year's charms to the shrine as a way of starting fresh. In front of the shrine, there was a drum decorated with a golden snake. It is believed that displaying the animal of the upcoming year brings good luck, and this year is the Year of the Snake.
After making a wish, I bought myself a charm shaped like a pink arrow, with a wooden tablet hanging from it. The charm features a snake and the shrine's stamp. It is believed that this lucky arrow can protect and assist in granting wishes when displayed in the home. I primarily bought it because it was very pretty, but if it comes with the added benefit of good luck, it’s a win-win situation! I pulled the middle luck and received a promising love fortune as well. Taking both as a positive sign, I waddled back to the bus and went home.
I had a wonderful experience celebrating a traditional New Year! The atmosphere was lively, and the event was truly charming. Next year, I hope to plan my New Year’s celebration a bit better and enjoy another traditional celebration, ideally with a beautiful sunrise involved. I wish everyone reading my blog an amazing New Year and hope you all create great stories in the year to come!
