New Year is one of the most important holidays in Japan.
Houses get cleaned and entrance gates are decorated with different kinds of ornaments.
One of them is made of pine, bamboo sprigs and plum trees mostly decorated in pairs called “Kadomatsu”.
The most popular ornament is called “Shimekazari”, a string of rice straw with zigzag strips of paper which is seen on most houses’ doors are a part of New Year to usher in good luck and prosperity.
On New Year’s eve, Japanese eat buckwheat noodles which is called “Toshikoshi Soba” for the longevity.
Welcoming the first sunrise of the new year which is called “Hatsuhinode” and first shrine or temple visit of the year called “Hatsumode” are celebrated activities of the first day of the New year.
