In one of the first days of the new year we go to a shrine nor far from where Coco lives. This year was no exception. The only exception was that usually we walk there but the new year started with strong cold winds and we were afraid that Coco would end up like a kite so we took the car instead. We bought tigers to protect us throughout the year.
In the evening we had dinner before returning back to Tokyo.
Every year we also visit the shrine not far from Chie’s mother’s place. Since Coco joined the family he comes along as well. The main purpose of the walk to the shrine is to get some fresh air, some exercise and to get us each a tiger.
The tiger is protecting the “owner” throughout the year. From illness and other bad things, such as vampires and werewolves 😉
Quite a few people visit the shrines and temples in the beginning of the new year. Mainly to send some prayers to whatever god they believe in for a prosperous year without illness, or maybe to pass the entry exams for Tokyo University.
So even though we got here the first day of the year, many had already been here to get their own tiger. My guess is that in the next coming days there will be a quite a lot more tigers lined up for duty.
Once we got back home Chie went to buy some groceries. Coco took his favorite waiting position. On a chair in the living room where he can observe what is happening on the street outside. This is where he usually waits once he knows Chie and I am going to visit, sometimes days in advance 🙂
For dinner we had traditional Japanese New Year’s food. I think I wrote about this in a blog post last year as well. Basically, preserved food to last during the 4 or so days when store were closed. Maybe it doesn’t sound so nice bit it is quite tasty.
It has been a tradition now for quite some time that Chie and I take a walk to the shrine not far from Chie’s mother’s home in Tokorozawa. Since Coco was born he has joined us.
This year was no exception. We all walked, enjoying the crisp air and the sunshine.
At the shrine we bought tigers for the three of us. As you may recall from last year the tigers bring protection from evil and illness during the new year. And so far it has worked.
Many people had come to the shrine to wish something for the new year and to add tigers for protection. I think that not many Japanese people are particularly religious, so they do not come to pray but rather to ask for health, wealth good grades, or whatever they need at the moment.
I kind of like the tigers because they are cute and it is a nice walk. Also they shrine is peaceful and has a nice garden with a lot of nice statues and trees.
On our way home we could get a nice view of Fuji-san as well. What a perfect way to start the new year!
At home again, we rested. And for dinner we had what is traditional Japanese New Year’s Day food. In old times the stores were closed for 4 days or so. This meant fresh food could not be bought during this time. So preserved food was bought and eaten during New Year.
