Oshogatsu (Japan) (16/20)

New Year’s Day in Japan, known as Oshogatsu, is a time to show gratitude to ancestors and to pray for good fortune in the coming year. Many people visit shrines and temples to give thanks, clean their homes to prepare for new beginnings, and enjoy meals of symbolic foods. The ritual of “osechi” cooking, which includes a variety of foods meant to bring good luck, is an important part of the celebration.