Origins of Hatsumode
The history of Hatsumode traces back to the Heian era (794 C.E. – 1185 C.E.) with the practice of toshigomori (年籠り). During this time, the head of a household would seclude himself in a family or hometown shrine dedicated to a guardian deity, praying from the evening of the previous year into the new year. This act symbolized a peaceful transition and a hopeful beginning.
With the advent of train travel in the late 19th century, visiting distant shrines became a fashionable activity, and Hatsumode became a well-established New Year's tradition. Shrines began attracting large numbers of visitors eager to experience unique architectural styles and spiritual blessings.
Preparing for the New Year
Before embarking on a shrine visit, Japanese households partake in several traditional activities:
- Osouji (大掃除): This involves a thorough cleaning of the home, akin to Western spring cleaning. The goal is to purify the space, removing the dust of the old year to welcome the new.
- Toshikoshi Soba (年越しそば): A traditional dish of buckwheat noodles served in a light broth with toppings like green onions and tempura prawns. Consumed on New Year’s Eve, these noodles symbolize long life and prosperity.
Traditional New Year Foods
In addition to soba, other traditional New Year foods include:
- Osechi-Ryori: Tiered bento boxes filled with delicacies such as kamaboko fish cakes, burdock root, and sea bream. Historically, these dishes were prepared in advance to avoid cooking during New Year celebrations.
- Mochi: These rice cakes, valued for their chewy texture, are believed to bring longevity and good fortune.
The Experience of Hatsumode
Visiting the Shrine
- Timing: While some choose to visit at midnight for the first sunrise, others prefer the first three days of the year. Expect long lines, particularly on New Year’s Day.
- Rituals: Visitors pass through torii gates to the main shrine, where they ring a bell and make wishes for the coming year. Writing wishes on ema (wooden tablets) and drawing omikuji (fortunes) are also popular activities.