03/01/2025
First post of 2025, we want to say “明けましておめでとうございます〜” to all of you!
Did you already dream this year? In Japan, the first dream of the year called “Hatsuyume”, and it is said that dreams of Mt.Fuji is the best, a hawk is the second, and an eggplant is the third good omens of the year.
Go back to the New Year, the Japanese people visit a shrine or temple during January, and it is called “Hatsumoude”. People also draw a paper fortune “Omikuji” which tells their fortune of the new year.
After asking my Japanese colleague, here are the most popular shrines/temples in Tochigi for “Hatsumoude”!
Utsunomiya Futaarayama Jinja Shrine: This shrine is centrally located in Utsunomiya City, is the most popular place in Central Area of Tochigi Pref.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine: As an UNESO World Heritage Site, this shrine is very populated by visitors who come to Nikko City.
Osaki Ebisu Jinja Shrine: Located in Moka City, this shrine is a famous spot praying for wealth. About 500 thousand people visit here per year.
Sano Yakuyoke-Daishi Temple: Near by the train station, this temple is famous for improving visitor’s luck.
We warmly invite you to visit Tochigi this year, and discover a Japan you never know.
Tochigi Prefecture Sightseeing Website: https://www.visit-tochigi.com