Preparing for New Years

New Years is hands down the biggest holiday in Japan.  Just like every other family here, we have been busy preparing. 

I'm cleaning the house.  This isn't just a regular cleaning.  All the corners need to be cleaned.  We are talking "mother-in-law is coming over for the first time" kind of cleaning.  It has to be done to perfection.  Even though we've only been here two and a half months, it's amazing how much needs attention. 

We went shopping for special celebratory foods and waited patiently for our osechi set to be delivered to our house (the traditional New Years Day meal).  It was delivered fully frozen and now needs to thaw before we eat it on the first of January.  I will write all about the food when we eat our fill. 

Much to my husband's chagrin, we purchased special New Years sake that has gold leaf in it.  When we visited Japan for the only New Years that we've spent in Japan together, his parents bought this special sake.  He was adamant that it was not part of their tradition.  However, it reminds me of a very happy memory with his family, so the gold leaf sake will be part of our celebration.

We also bought decorations and proudly put them on display.  We now have a braided wreath on our door that is intended to keep misfortune and unclean spirits away, called shimenawa.  There are lots of different styles at the store - some more like a swag and others like a wreath, but all made with a rope.  No matter the style, they are meant to attract the  New Year's God to bring good fortune.

Inside our home, we have put up a kagami mochi.  It used to be made with fresh mochi (pounded rice formed into large stacked disks), but is common to have plastic versions these days.  According to the Japan Kagami Mochi Association, kagami mochi is thought to contain the spirit of the rice.  They say a deity visits during the New Year’s period, bringing a good harvest and the blessing of ancestors, and the power of life.

There is much to be done in preparation.  Today my son asked if we were going to have a big party and invite everyone we know.  I had to disappoint him with the news that we would be celebrating with just the three of us.  He doesn't realize it yet, but it will still be super fun with just our family.