As the new year begins in Japan, millions of people visit shrines and temples to take part in Hatsumode, a beloved tradition filled with hope, reflection, and celebration. But for many, including myself, it’s not just the prayers that make this time special—it’s the memories of warm food, cold mornings, and family moments that stay with us forever.
What is Hatsumode?
Hatsumode is the traditional Japanese practice of visiting a shrine or temple at the beginning of the New Year. It usually takes place between January 1st and 3rd, and it’s a time when people pray for things like good health, happiness, and success in the coming year. Shrines and temples across Japan are filled with visitors, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
My Childhood Memories of Hatsumode
When I was a child, my parents would take me to a local shrine every New Year’s Day. I remember standing in long lines with them, wrapped in warm coats, waiting patiently to make our offering and say our prayers. Despite the cold, I loved those moments. There was something magical about the early morning light, the sound of the shrine bell ringing, and the soft scent of incense in the air.
The Joy of Festival Food Stalls
One of the best parts of Hatsumode for me was the yatai—festival food stalls—that lined the path to the shrine. These stalls offered all kinds of delicious snacks: takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste), and more. But there was one snack I looked forward to the most every year.
What is Tama-Konnyaku?
Tama-konnyaku (konjac balls) is a simple but tasty dish that holds a special place in my heart. It’s made from konnyaku, a jelly-like food made from the root of the konjac plant. The konnyaku is shaped into small round balls, then simmered in a savory soy sauce-based broth. They’re usually served on skewers and sometimes come with a bit of spicy mustard on the side.
The texture is chewy and unique, and the flavor is warm and comforting—perfect for a cold winter day. I remember holding the skewer in my gloved hands, enjoying the steam rising from the food stall and the delicious taste of the hot, flavorful konnyaku. It was a simple pleasure, but one that made the whole Hatsumode experience even more special.
More Than Just a Tradition
Hatsumode is more than a religious or cultural event. It’s a time to reflect, to spend time with family, and to make small but meaningful memories—like eating a favorite festival snack. Even now, those memories come back to me every New Year.
If you ever visit Japan during the New Year season, I highly recommend experiencing Hatsumode for yourself. Join the line at a local shrine, listen to the sounds of tradition, and try a skewer of tama-konnyaku. You might just create a warm memory of your own.
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