LAN: You lived in Japan for more than two years, could you tell me something about Japanese New year, Mai? When is the New Year observed?

MAI: It’s on 1st January, and it lasts three days through 3rd January.

LAN: Do people do the same things as we do in Vietnam?

MAI: Well, there are some similarities and also some differences.

LAN: Please, tell me about them.

MAI: The preparations begin a few days before the New Year when housewives start cooking special food for New Year’s Day.

LAN: Do they clean and decorate their houses?

MAI: Sure, they do. On the New Year’s Eve every household do a big cleaning up. The idea is to get rid of the dirt of the past year and welcome the new one.

LAN: Yes, they usually decorate their houses with some small pine trees on both sides of the door, which represent longevity and constancy. People also exchange cards and gifts.

MAI: I see. And what do they usually do on the New Year’s Eve?

LAN: Family members sit around and start watching the national singing contest on television. But the last notes must be sung before midnight. Then television and radio will broadcast 108 bells. As soon as the 108th bell is rung, people all say “Happy New Year”.

MAI: What do they usually do next?

LAN: Some families put on special kimonos or dress to go to visit their shrine.

Then they come home and eat their special New Year Day’s food and drink a lot of rice wine. New Year’s Day is mostly celebrated among family only.