Agemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu

I remember New Years in the past. People ready to go out, party, and drink till the early mornings... because its the new year. And not to forget about that cliche kiss at midnight.

Well, all of that goes down the drain in the Japanese New Year. New Years here is what Christmas is in Western countries- celebrated with the family and enjoyed in remembrance of others. It is a time to be part of the family. One of the many things the Japanese do is visit the Shrine (if Shinto) or Temple (if Buddhist) to pray for a good new year.

The phrase "Agemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu" does not translate directly as "Happy New Year" but rather "hope your year is better than the last and all the best in the future". The meaning is there, but revered much more. One way to acknowledge the reverence of the saying is the many times one must bow when giving this phrase. It is almost robotic in nature to bow when hearing these words- or suspected words. In all cases, just bow.

Unfortunately, my first New Years abroad was also spent abroad, away from Japan, but I hope one day to experience the New Year- not to mention that food that is made specially for the New Year. And I thought the holiday glutony was bad in Canada- wait 'till you see this.