Hatsumode
Japanese Name:
初詣
Romaji Name:
hatsumoude
Description
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Hatsumode is the Japanese tradition of visiting a shrine or temple for the first time in the New Year. People go to pray for good health, happiness, and success in the coming year. During hatsumode, visitors often buy lucky charms, draw fortune slips called "omikuji," and participate in various rituals. It is an important cultural event that brings families and communities together to welcome the new year with hope and gratitude.
History
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Hatsumode is the Japanese tradition of visiting a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple at the beginning of the New Year to pray for health, happiness, and good fortune. The practice dates back to the Heian period (8th–12th centuries), when people would visit shrines at the start of the year to pay respects to deities. During the Edo period (17th–19th centuries), it became more popular among common people. Today, millions of Japanese people participate in Hatsumode during the first few days of January.