Life & Lifestyle
Hatsumode and Osaisen: Japanese New Year Shrine Visits and Lucky Offering Amounts
A guide to the Japanese tradition of Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year) and Osaisen (monetary offerings). Learn why 5-yen coins symbolize "good fortune," which amounts bring luck, and master the proper prayer etiquette including the "two bows, two claps, one bow" ritual.