HATSUMODE

Hatsumode — visiting a shrine or temple to pray for good fortune in the coming year — is one of Japan’s most enduring New Year’s traditions. Some temples start the festivities the night before, with visitors gathering to watch as the temple’s bell is rung to mark the end of the old year and the arrival of the new one. Many more people pay their respects at temples or shrines after the new year begins, usually between Jan. 1 and 3, and popular shrines and temples may get very crowded. However, if you would prefer to avoid the crowds, it is also perfectly acceptable to visit later in the new year, generally up to Jan. 7.

While there are some variations, as a general guide, people throw a coin into the offering box, ring the bell as way of greeting the deity, bow twice, clap their hands twice and then close their eyes and pray silently for the coming year. Finally, they bow again before making way for the next person in line. It is recommended to dress warmly when setting out for hatsumode, as the visit may involve lining up for some time.
Hatusmode comes with opportunities to buy traditional Japanese lucky charms called omamori.
People can purchase ones to suit their needs, including those for health, wealth and love. Also popular are omikuji(fortunes), which are written on paper strips. After reading the year’s fortune, people can either tie it in a designated area or keep it until next year. One more appealing hatsumode custom is the purchasing of decorative wooden plaques called ema. People can write their wishes on them — in any language — and tie the ema in a designated area.
To have a safe and enjoyable hatsumode experience this new year, be sure to follow guidelines such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, practicing social distancing and visiting in small groups. Consider timing your visit after Jan. 3, when most temples and shrines are less busy. Some temples have introduced their own innovations, such as swiping a QR code on your phone to select a paper fortune instead of doing so by hand.