Obrolan Jepang! Tahun baru di Jepang ngapain aja ya?
Table of Contents
Introduction
In this tutorial, we will explore the customs and activities associated with New Year's celebrations in Japan, as discussed in the video "Obrolan Jepang! Tahun baru di Jepang ngapain aja ya?" by Gakushudo no Nihongo. Understanding these traditions offers valuable insights into Japanese culture and can enhance your appreciation of the holiday season.
Step 1: New Year's Preparations
Before New Year's Day, Japanese people engage in various preparations:
- Cleaning the House: This symbolizes getting rid of the old year's bad luck and making space for good fortune.
- Shopping for Food: Special foods, known as "osechi," are prepared and purchased. These foods often come in beautifully arranged boxes and include traditional dishes like black soybeans, fish, and vegetables.
- Decorating: Homes are adorned with decorations called "kadomatsu" (bamboo and pine) and "shimekazari" (rice straw), which welcome ancestral spirits.
Step 2: New Year's Eve Celebrations
On December 31st, several significant activities take place:
- Toshikoshi Soba: Eating soba noodles to symbolize crossing over from one year to the next.
- Visiting Temples: Many people visit Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples to pray for good fortune in the coming year.
- Joya no Kane: At midnight, temples ring bells 108 times, which is believed to purify sins and bring peace.
Step 3: New Year's Day Activities
January 1st marks the official start of the New Year with various customs:
- First Shrine Visit (Hatsumode): Families visit shrines to pray for health and happiness for the year ahead.
- Exchanging New Year's Cards (Nengajo): Sending greeting cards to friends and family is a common practice.
- Enjoying Osechi Ryori: Families gather to share the special New Year's food, reflecting on the past year and sharing hopes for the future.
Step 4: New Year's Greetings
Understanding the greetings used during this festive time is essential:
- Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu: This phrase translates to "Happy New Year" and is commonly used during the first days of January.
- Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu: This means "Please take care of me this year as well," expressing goodwill towards others.
Conclusion
Celebrating New Year in Japan is rich with unique customs and traditions that reflect the culture's values of family, renewal, and hope. Engaging in these practices can provide deeper cultural understanding and appreciation. If you're interested in Japanese culture, consider participating in these festivities or learning more about them through additional resources or travel experiences.