On the first day of the year, one of the main events in Japan is the first visit to the shrine or temple, Hatsumode. It can be done during the first days of the year, but many people prefer to do it immediately after midnight. That’s why, a few hours before midnight, at the most famous temples or shrines, you can see long queues of people, some dressed in traditional clothing, waiting patiently to pray for good fortune, health and safety in the new year. Another, related custom, is to buy omikuji written oracles and omamori amulets.

Here’s a photo taken at the Asakusa Shrine, my favorite Hatsumode place…

Asakusa Shrine, Asakusa, Tokyo

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Last day of the year, Joya no Kane, 108 Bell Chimes