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kadomatsu
A kadomatsu, a traditional Japanese new year decoration made of pine, bamboo, and other materials.
Shōgatsu
Japanese holiday
Also known as: Oshōgatsu
- Also called:
- Oshōgatsu
Shōgatsu, public holiday observed in Japan on January 1–3 (though celebrations sometimes last for the entire week), marking the beginning of a new calendar year. On the eve of the new year, temple bells ring 108 times: 8 times to ring out the old year and 100 times to usher in the new year. Prior to the start of the holiday, houses are thoroughly cleaned to signify readiness for a new beginning, and they are decorated with pine boughs, straw, and bamboo to symbolize longevity. People traditionally wake early on New Year’s Day to view the first sunrise of the ...(100 of 250 words)