“Hatsumode” is an event to welcome the New Year and pray for safety and peace at a shrine or temple for the first time. At the stroke of midnight, as the bell rings for the last time, the joy of embracing the New Year and the solemn atmosphere fill the air. Even at midnight, many people form lines to visit shrines and temples.
There are certain rules of etiquette to observe when visiting a shrine. The first step is to purify oneself at the “Chozuya” (water purification basin). With a wooden ladle in the right hand, one scoops water and cleanses the left hand. Then, the ladle is transferred to the left hand, water is scooped again, and the right hand is purified. Afterward, the ladle is returned to the right hand, water is poured into the left hand, and the ladle is brought to the face to rinse the mouth.
The method of worship varies between shrines and temples. At shrines, one quietly offers money into the offering box, rings the bell, claps twice, prays, and finally bows. However, it is important to check the specific rituals of each shrine in advance, as they may differ, such as “Nirei shimatte ichirei” (two claps, four claps, and one bow).