Tourism Column
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Tokyo’s Top 5 Hatsumode Destinations 2025
Your Guide to New Year’s Shrine Visits As the New Year approaches, millions of visitors flock to Tokyo’s shrines and temples for Hatsumode, the traditional first shrine visit of the year. Each location offers its own unique blend of spiritual significance, cultural experiences, and festive atmosphere. Here are the top 5 destinations that showcase the best of this cherished tradition. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu) Located in the heart of Tokyo, Meiji Shrine welcomes over 3 million visitors during the New Year period, making it the city’s most popular Hatsumode destination. A majestic forest path leads to the shrine, creating a serene atmosphere despite being in the center of the metropolis. …
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Characteristics of Hatsumode in Japan
Hatsumode, the first Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple visit of the New Year, is one of Japan’s most significant cultural traditions. This centuries-old practice typically occurs between January 1-3, drawing millions of Japanese people and visitors to religious sites across the country. During Hatsumode, visitors perform specific rituals that have been passed down through generations. Upon arriving at a shrine or temple, people first purify themselves at the chozuya (water pavilion) by washing their hands and rinsing their mouths. They then approach the main hall, where they toss a coin as an offering, ring the bell to grab the attention of the deities, bow twice, clap twice, make their prayers…
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Explore Japan with the Shinkansen Bullet Train
Japan’s famous high-speed bullet train, the Shinkansen, provides quick access to all parts of Japan. Iconic Symbol of Japan The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, is an iconic symbol of Japan’s innovation and efficiency in transportation. Renowned globally for its safety standards and reliability, it’s a must-experience for tourists visiting Japan. Speed and Efficiency With speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour, the Shinkansen swiftly connects major cities across Japan. Its rapid travel times make it ideal for tourists looking to maximize their exploration of Japan’s diverse regions. Access to Key Destinations Serving as the backbone of Japan’s transportation network, the Shinkansen links Tokyo with cities like Osaka, Nagoya,…
