[SMA X BHS JEPANG] BUDAYA TAHUN BARU DI JEPANG ( OSHOUGATSU ) | YULFIA, S.S.,M.Pd

Summary

This video delves into the traditional Japanese customs surrounding the New Year, known as Oshogatsu. It highlights key cultural practices such as sending New Year's greeting cards (Nengajo), cleaning homes and workplaces (Kouji), decorating with auspicious items (Kazari Mono), preparing and eating special foods (Osechi Ryori), and visiting shrines for prayers (Hatsumode). Additionally, the script covers unique traditions like the first sunrise viewing (Hatsuhinode), playing traditional games, and offering money to children (Otoshidama). These customs are rich in symbolism and are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity in the coming year.

Takeaways

• 😀 Oshogatsu is the traditional Japanese New Year celebration, marked by a variety of cultural customs and activities.
• 😀 Nengajo are New Year's greeting cards sent to friends, family, and colleagues, featuring messages of goodwill and symbols of the zodiac year.
• 😀 House cleaning (Kouji) is a significant tradition, symbolizing the removal of bad luck and the welcoming of new opportunities.
• 😀 Traditional decorations such as Kadomatsu, Kagamimochi, and Shimenawa are used to welcome good spirits and protect from evil.
• 😀 Mochizuki, the act of making mochi (rice cakes), is a communal activity believed to bring strength and prosperity for the coming year.
• 😀 Eating Toshikoshi Soba on New Year's Eve symbolizes longevity and is considered a significant part of the year-end celebration.
• 😀 Joya no Kane, the ringing of bells 108 times at Buddhist temples, signifies the removal of 108 worldly desires.
• 😀 Hatsuhinode involves watching the first sunrise of the year, as it is believed to bring blessings and good fortune.
• 😀 Hatsumode is the first shrine visit of the year to pray for peace and prosperity, usually performed on January 1st.
• 😀 Osechi Ryori, special New Year foods, are prepared in advance and served in stacked boxes, symbolizing health, wealth, and longevity.
• 😀 Otoshidama is the custom of giving children money in envelopes, a tradition meant to bring them prosperity and growth for the new year.
• 😀 Hatsuyume, the first dream of the year, is believed to predict fortune, with dreams of Mount Fuji, a hawk, or an eggplant being particularly lucky.
• 😀 Hanetsuki is a traditional game, similar to badminton, played to ward off bad luck and promote good health for children.
• 😀 Kakizome, the first calligraphy of the year, is done with a special phrase to invite good fortune for the coming year.
• 😀 Takoage, kite flying, is a fun and symbolic tradition enjoyed during the New Year to represent freedom and good luck.

Q & A

What is 'Oshogatsu' and why is it significant in Japanese culture?

'Oshogatsu' refers to the New Year in Japan, a time when Japanese people prepare for the new year by observing various customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. It is significant because it marks the beginning of the year and is considered an opportunity for renewal, good fortune, and family bonding.

What is the tradition of sending 'Nengajo' cards, and when must they be sent?

Nengajo are New Year's greeting cards sent to friends, family, and colleagues. The tradition is to ensure the cards arrive on January 1st. They must be sent ahead of time to meet postal deadlines set by the Japanese postal service to ensure timely delivery.

What are some common phrases used in Japanese New Year greetings?

Common phrases include 'Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu' (Happy New Year) for formal greetings and 'Akemashite Omedetou' for informal greetings. Another phrase is 'Kotoshi mo Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu,' expressing a desire to continue good relationships and cooperation in the new year.

Why is cleaning the house and workspace significant in Japanese New Year traditions?

Cleaning the house and workspace is done to rid spaces of bad luck from the previous year and to prepare for a fresh start. The practice, known as 'Kouji,' is believed to bring good fortune and positive energy into the new year.

What are some common decorations used in Japanese New Year celebrations?

Common decorations include 'Kadomatsu' (bamboo and pine arrangements placed at doorways), 'Kagamimochi' (stacked mochi cakes with a tangerine on top), and 'Shimenawa' (sacred ropes placed at entrances to ward off evil spirits). These items symbolize good luck and protection for the coming year.

What is the significance of making 'Mochi' during the New Year?

Making 'Mochi' (rice cakes) together is a tradition that symbolizes strength and hope for the new year. It is believed to bring good fortune and ensure health and prosperity for the year ahead.

What is the custom of 'Toshikoshi Soba' and what does it symbolize?

'Toshikoshi Soba' involves eating long soba noodles on New Year's Eve. The long noodles symbolize longevity and the hope for a long, healthy life. It is a significant part of the New Year's celebration.

What is the meaning behind 'Joya no Kane' and how is it performed?

'Joya no Kane' refers to the tradition of ringing a Buddhist bell 108 times on New Year's Eve. The 108 strikes represent the 108 worldly desires that, according to Buddhist belief, bind people to suffering. The ringing is meant to purify the individuals from these desires and bring spiritual renewal.

What is 'Hatsuhinode' and why do Japanese people observe it?

'Hatsuhinode' is the tradition of watching the first sunrise of the new year. It is believed that praying while watching the first sunrise brings good luck and blessings for the year ahead.

What is 'Osechi Ryori' and why is it significant during New Year celebrations?

'Osechi Ryori' consists of special New Year's dishes prepared in advance and served in stacked boxes called 'Jubako.' The dishes symbolize good health, wealth, and happiness for the new year. The food is carefully chosen for its ability to preserve well and provide ease to busy families during the New Year period.