Traditions
What is the original meaning of Shogatsu
January
You eat this to welcome the New Year
Written to friends and sent on the 1st of January
Nengajo
Children, especially teenagers love to receive this during new year.
Otoshi-Dama
The Shape of Kagami Mochi in Eastern Japan
Square - Kiri Mochi
On December 31st most people visit this place
Temple
Name of traditional food eaten on New Years Day.
Osechi
Hanetsuki
Where do you write your wishes for next year.
Shrine
Known as the Demon Breaking Arrow
Hamaya (破魔矢)
Stacking of rice cakes is called
Kagami-Mochi
A New Year's meal will not be complete without
Zoni
The name of the paddle used in Hanetsuki
Hagoita
How many times is the bell rung during Shogatsu
108
According to a 2024 nationwide survey in Japan, the average total amount of otoshidama received by high school students
A) ¥27,963
B) ¥22,181
C) ¥31,527
D) ¥19,070
The original name of mikan on top of the Kagami-Mochi
DAI DAI
Traditionally, this is eaten on the 7th day of January
Nanakusa-gayu
This traditional toy stands on one leg.
Koma-mawashi
For many decades, it has been customary to watch this TV show on New Year's Eve.
Kōhaku Uta Gassen (紅白歌合戦)
Most common cause of death specifically during Shōgatsu
Mochi-related choking (窒息)
This is a fire event to burn sacred ropes and calligraphy to send a God to heaven.
Dondo-yaki
Drinking this with family on New Year's day is believed to be able to chase away sickness in the coming year.
Toso
Tokugawa shogun in the late Edo Period (1603 to 1868) only allowed people to do this during Shogatsu.
Tako-Age Flying a Kite
This is a large, heavy mortar, traditionally carved from a single block of wood or stone, that holds the steamed glutinous rice (mochigome) while it is being pounded.
Usu
In a traditional Japanese room, the most prestigious or honored person will sit where?
Kamiza (上座)
Historically, sitting farthest from the door meant protection from drafts, danger, and intruders—privileges given to the most important guest or elder.