Customs, Festivals, and Observances: The Japanese Year

(Left) Traditional New Year shimekazari decoration at the entrance to a house. (Right) Ozōni is a popular dish at New Year.

(Left) A display of hina dolls. (Right) Ohagi (also called botamochi) are often eaten at Higan.

Families on their way to elementary school entrance ceremonies are a common sight in April.

(Left) Colorful carp streamers, flown to mark Children’s Day. (Right) Decorative armor on display in a home.

Hydrangeas, which bloom during the rainy season.

Tanabata decorations.

Tsukimi decorations, including tsukimi dango.

Elementary school students roll a giant ball at their school sports festival, or undōkai.

A young girl in traditional dress visiting a temple for shichi-go-san.