Author: Federica Morgandi

 

New Year in Japan Is a Quiet Time for Family and Shrine Visits

 

Dawn Over Hidaka Mountains.

 

During New Year, most companies and schools are closed, allowing people to spend quality time with family and loved ones.

 

December 31st is called Omisoka, (大晦日, Ōmisoka) January 1st is Ganjitsu (元日, Ganjitsu) and the three days from January 1st to 3rd are Sanga-nichi (三箇日, Sanga-nichi). 

 

During these days, shrines become busier than ever, as it is a nationwide tradition to visit and offer prayers for the year ahead. Visitors can often be seen lining up at the gates to make their offerings.

 

In Hokkaido, the New Year season is filled with exciting events such as countdown celebrations, the first sunrise of the year, and much more.

 

Ring in the New Year at Kamifurano’s “Kita no Daimonji”

 

Lit up “大” during Kita no Daimonji.

 

Kita no Daimonji (北の大文字, Kita no Daimonji) is an event held on New Year’s Eve at Hinode Park in Kamifurano Town. 

 

This event commemorates the victims of the 1926 eruption of Mount Tokachi, while also praying for the safety and revitalization of the region.

 

Just before the clock strikes midnight, a Tenkabito (点火人, the person responsible for lighting the fire) begins the lighting ceremony. Traditional taiko drum performances add to the festive atmosphere.

 

When the New Year arrives, a sacred flame from Kamifurano Shrine is used to light about 300 iron stakes arranged in the shape of the kanji character “大” (dai). This enormous character measures 70 meters tall and 50 meters wide, creating a breathtaking sight.

 

After the Daimonji is lit, a fireworks display begins. The combination of the sacred flames and the colorful fireworks creates a grand and awe-inspiring start to the year.

 

Catch the First Sunrise of the Year at Cape Erimo

 

Cape Erimo.

 

Cape Erimo (襟裳岬, Erimo-misaki) is located at the southernmost tip of the Hidaka Mountains (日高山脈, Hidaka Sanmyaku), also known as the backbone of Hokkaido. 

 

It is a scenic spot protected as a nationally designated cultural asset called “Pirika Noka” (ピリカ・ノカ) meaning “beautiful shape” in the Ainu Language. 

 

It offers a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from an outdoor observation deck on a cliff about 60 meters high.

 

On New Year’s Day, many visitors come to this iconic location to witness their first sunrise of the year, a tradition that brings good fortune for the year ahead. 

 

Keep in mind that Cape Erimo is one of the windiest areas in Japan, so it is best to wear warm, windproof clothing when you visit. 

 

Visit Hokkaido Jingu for Hatsumode

 

Hokkaido Jingu (Shrine).

 

Hokkaido Jingu (北海道神宮, Hokkaidō Jingū) is a revered shrine in Hokkaido, known as the island’s general guardian since the pioneer era. It enshrines four deities: three gods who are protectors of Hokkaido’s development and progress, along with Emperor Meiji.

 

Hokkaido Jingu is a popular spot for Hatsumode (初詣, Hatsumōde), the first shrine visit of the New Year. On New Year’s Day, the gates open at midnight, and the shrine becomes lively with many visitors. 

 

Within the grounds, the Juyosho (amulet distribution area) offers items traditionally believed to bring good fortune, such as Hamaya (arrows to ward off evil), Kumade (rakes symbolizing prosperity), and bells themed after the zodiac animal of the year. These items are sold exclusively during the New Year period, so be sure to check them out if you visit for Hatsumode.

 

If you’re visiting during the peak days of the New Year, expect large crowds. For those who prefer to avoid the hustle, consider visiting after the first three days of the year, when the crowds have usually thinned.

 

Savor a Steaming Hot Bowl of Sapporo Miso Ramen

 

Miso Ramen.

 

Hokkaido’s cold winter weather calls for a warm and satisfying meal, and there’s no better comfort food than a steaming bowl of miso ramen (ラーメン, Rāmen). Born in Sapporo, miso ramen is a beloved staple, offering a rich, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.

 

Many ramen shops remain open during the New Year, so you can enjoy a bowl of this iconic dish at any time. Each shop has its own unique recipe for the soup and noodles, making it fun to try different places to find your perfect match.

 

 

Visitor Information

 

Kita no Daimonji

■ Date and Time: December 31, 2024, doors open at 23:15 – 0:15.

■ Phone: 0167-45-2191 (Kami-Furano Chamber of Commerce and Industry)

■ Location: Kamifurano Town Hinode Park

■ Access: 15 minutes walk from Kamifuranocho Station / 3 minutes by taxi

■ Parking: None

■ Event Website: https://www.kamifurano.jp/

 

Hokkaido Jingu 

■ New Year’s opening and closing times

New Year’s Day: 0:00-19:00

January 2nd-3rd: 6:00-18:00

January 4th-7th: 6:00-16:00

January 8th-31st: 7:00-16:00

■ Parking: Available

■ Parking Fee: 500 yen every 2 hours, from 18:00 on December 31st to Tuesday, January 7th, 2025.

 

Cape Erimo

■ Expected time of first sunrise: 6:55

■ Kaze no Yakata Opening Times: 5:00 – 8:00

■ Admission fees: 

300 JPY for adults and university students

200 JPY for elementary, middle and high school students.

■ Access: Public transportation not available during early morning hours when the first sunrise can be seen.

You should head to Cape Erimo by car. It takes about 40 minutes from JR Samani Station to get there.