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Kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, holds special significance during New Year celebrations as haregi (formal clothing). We spoke with an expert in kimono studies to explore the history, traditions, and modern adaptations of this attire, particularly for women. “HIGHLIGHTING Japan” is an official monthly online magazine to promote understanding of Japan for the people around the world, with variety of themes.This month’s Highlighting Japan,we present an interview with a great scholar of folklore on the special meaning that welcoming the New Year has for Japanese people. We introduce kimono, o-sechi ryori cuisine, a New Year's herbal sake As 2024 ends, kimono influencer Sheila Cliffe showcases her versatile seasonal looks, blending tradition and festive style for an auspicious New Year. Another Japanese New Year custom is Hatsumode, the ritual first shrine or temple visit of the new year. Hatsumode usually takes place either on New Year’s Day or a few days after. Many Japanese dress up in traditional Japanese kimono during this visit. By the time you count the 108th peal, you are ready to start the new year refreshed without anything troubling your mind -- in theory. Toshikoshi-soba (年越し蕎麦) The tradition of eating soba (Japanese noodles) on New Year’s Eve is said to have become common during the Edo era (1603-1868). After an unusually warm autumn, it is finally cold and comfortable to wear lined kimono. Officially, they are worn from October, but in 2023 it was still too hot to do so. After a recent trip to the United Kingdom, I returned to Japan and was surprised to find how bright and sunny it was here. Vintage Doll Clothes, Smart Doll Clothes, 1/3 BJD Clothes, Vintage Doll Kimono, Japanese Kimono Outfit, New Year Kimono, Pink Sakura Kimono (5) $ 99.17 It is common to wear fine clothes for the New Year’s temple or shrine visit to pay your respect to the enshrined deity. Thus, it is a time when both women and men can be seen wearing kimono. New Year’s is a great occasion to step out in traditional Japanese clothing. New Years Day Omikuji To many Japanese people, welcoming in the new year takes precedence over all other holidays in terms of importance. There are many unique practices and customs that occur towards the end of the year, all with curious origins and backstories, but perhaps the most important and well-known tradition is called “Hatsumode.” Image: Nahomilly Indoors, kimono-clad dogs are often surrounded by traditional New Year decorations. The beauty below appears with a couple of hagoita paddles (right), which are used to play the New Year’s game hanetsuki, a kagami mochi (mirror rice cake), and a kumade (bamboo rake), which is said to “rake” in happiness and money for the coming year. Find and save ideas about japanese new year kimono on Pinterest. NECKLACE New Years Geisha - January kimono, ribbons, cherry blossoms, red umbrella, gifu, Japan, red obi painting by Rachel Walker (230) $ 20.00 5.0 (1 review / experience) Why not wear a cute and cool kimono to celebrate Shichi-Go-San? 7 years old (girl): 13,200 yen 5 years old (boy/3 year old boy): 8,800 yen 3 years old (girl): 5,500 yen The rental fee includes a set of celebratory clothes, a dressing gown, and a hair set for girls. Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year, is an important tradition in Japanese culture. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and setting intentions for the year ahead. While there are countless shrines across Japan where you can participate in hatsumode, some locations stand out for their historical significance and vibrant atmosphere.
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Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.