Japanese Way





正月
Shougatu
New Year

The Ise Shrine



Although shougotsu means January,
it is generally celebrated for the first three days or the first week of Jnuary
and is the most important period for the Japanese.
Schools and businesses close for one to teo weeks after about December 29,
and many people who live away from their families return home to spend this time with
their families.

To prepare for shougatsu, ageneral house cleaning is done,
and New Year's pine and bamboo decore=ations,
sacred straw festoon,and round mirrorshaped rice cakes are set out.

On New Year's Eve, bells speeding the old year are rung at temples
and the New Year's is welcomed by eating year-crossing noodles.

On Mwe Year's Day, many wear Japanese-style garments and people go for
the first temple or shrine visit of the New Year and pray for
health and happiness in the new year.

Shougatu is also enjoyed by reading New Year's cards
and by children receiving New Year's gift.