What Is Hatsumode? Japan’s New Year Shrine Tradition and Where People Go in Nagasaki
Hatsumode is Japan’s traditional first shrine or temple visit of the year, symbolizing gratitude for the past and hopes for the future.
JAPANESE CULTURE
1/3/20262 min read
One of the most important traditions of the Japanese New Year is Hatsumode, the first visit of the year to a shrine or temple to pray for health, happiness, safety, and success in the coming year. It is a deeply rooted cultural practice and an important way to experience Japanese spirituality and seasonal customs.
In this article, we introduce the meaning and history of Hatsumode, what people do during their visit, and where locals in Nagasaki usually go for their first shrine visit of the year.
The History and Background of Hatsumode
The origin of Hatsumode dates back to the Heian period. At that time, people practiced a ritual called Toshigomori, where the head of the household stayed overnight at a shrine in the year’s lucky direction to pray for blessings.
The modern custom of visiting shrines and temples between January 1st and 3rd became popular in the Meiji period, when railways made travel easier and people began visiting famous shrines in large numbers.
Today, Hatsumode is both a religious act and a cultural tradition — a way to mark a fresh start, express gratitude for the past year, and make wishes for the future.
What Do People Do During Hatsumode?
A typical Hatsumode visit includes:
Bowing once before passing through the torii gate
Purifying hands and mouth at the water basin
Offering a coin and praying (two bows, two claps, one bow at Shinto shrines)
Making a wish or giving thanks for the past year
Drawing an omikuji (fortune slip)
Buying charms (omamori) or protective arrows
This sequence itself is a meaningful cultural experience for visitors.
Where Do People in Nagasaki Go for Hatsumode?
Suwa Shrine (Nagasaki City)
The most famous shrine in Nagasaki, attracting large crowds every New Year. It is also known for the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival and is deeply loved by locals.
Wakamiya Inari Shrine / Kameyama Shachu Area
Known for its connection to Sakamoto Ryoma, this area combines history, nature, and spirituality.
Local Neighborhood Shrines
Many locals prefer visiting their local guardian shrine for a quieter, more personal Hatsumode experience.
Because Nagasaki has a unique history shaped by international trade and cultural exchange, Hatsumode here feels slightly different from other parts of Japan and is often combined with a walk around the historic town.
Why Hatsumode Is Popular with International Visitors
Hatsumode has become increasingly popular with international travelers because it offers:
A chance to experience authentic Japanese culture
Beautiful shrine architecture and seasonal atmosphere
A meaningful souvenir in the form of charms and fortunes
Many visitors enjoy wearing kimono, taking photos, and learning the customs directly from locals or guides.
Nagasaki Private Tours — Private Tours and Customizable Shore Excursions
If you are planning to visit Nagasaki and would like a private, flexible, and stress-free experience, we would be happy to help.
At Nagasaki Private Tours, we offer carefully designed model itineraries as well as customizable private tours — with the option to travel comfortably by private car or experience the city like a local on its historic streetcars, whether you are visiting by cruise ship or staying in the city.
Learn more or make a reservation here:
https://nagasakiprivatetours.com