New Year's celebrations are rich with tradition and exuberance across Japan, showcasing unique rituals and festive spirits. This year, two remarkable events took place to usher in 2024: the ‘Year's Greeting Bath’ at the Moakainaza hot springs and the ‘Tama-Seseri’ ritual at Hakozaki Shrine.
At the Moakainaza hot springs, visitors rejoiced as they participated in the ‘Year's Greeting Bath,’ which runs until January 13. This soothing experience features 100 cedar boards with New Year’s greetings carefully inscribed by staff, floating ceremoniously atop the therapeutic waters, creating both a festive and calming atmosphere. One of the staff members noted, “The bath features 100 cedar boards with New Year’s greetings written on them,” which perfectly captures the spirit of goodwill and warmth attendees can expect.
Meanwhile, excitement was palpable at Hakozaki Shrine, where approximately 50,000 people gathered to witness the traditional ‘Tama-Seseri,’ which involves competitive offerings of wooden balls. Known as ‘Seki,’ participants engage fiercely, believing their interaction with the 8-kilogram balls brings blessings for the year. The competition witnesses men divided between the ‘land’ and ‘beach’ groups, and this year, it was the land group’s turn to make their offerings, which signifies good harvests to come.
Junya Higuchi from the local media remarked, “About 50,000 people gathered to see the New Year’s ritual,” highlighting the communal spirit surrounding this event. Visitors watched with fervent excitement as competitors, donned traditionally and drenched, clamored for the wooden balls, demonstrating strength and determination. “When you touch the ball, you will escape disaster and be granted fortune,” explained one participant, reflecting the deep cultural beliefs embedded within this practice.
The atmosphere at Hakozaki Shrine was lively and invigorated, with attendees expressing their admiration for the participants. “I felt energized seeing the men braving the cold,” shared one visitor, reflecting the overall sense of vigor and enthusiasm. Another attendee added, “I want to make this child participate like them one day,” showcasing the desire to pass on these traditions to the next generation, ensuring their continuation.
One of the competitors expressed contentment post-race, saying, “I feel refreshed and wish for fun this year,” echoing the hopes many have as the New Year begins. It’s the wishes, hopes and aspiration for the year 2024 being shared collectively, emphasizing the spirit of these enduring customs.
Both events encapsulate the essence of Japanese culture, illustrating deep-rooted beliefs about fortune, community, and renewal. The New Year signifies not just the passage of time but also the chance for reflection, celebration, and the forging of communal bonds through cherished traditions. Events such as the ‘Year's Greeting Bath’ and ‘Tama-Seseri’ serve as vivid reminders of this rich cultural heritage, pointing toward hopes and dreams for the year to come.