Why Do Japanese People Visit Shrines at New Year?

People visiting a Shinto shrine in Japan during New Year

In early January, anyone visiting Japan will notice a calm and quietly meaningful scene. Even people who say they are “not religious” head to shrines at the very beginning of the year.They wait patiently in line, bow lightly, bring their hands together in prayer, and leave without much conversation. For many visitors, this raises natural … Read more

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