Join a Hatsumode (初詣). Hatsumode (初詣) refers to the first visit to the shrine (or Buddhist temple for some). For a spiritual country like Japan, this is an important occasion. Whilst most may have spent their hatsumode in popular cities like Tokyo, I spent mine in Nagoya thankfully. The beauty of spending such a momentous event in a smaller city is that I managed to enjoy the festive atmosphere without much hassle and was able to witness the sounding of the gong at midnight! It was such a surreal and beautiful experience that I want to relish once more! #winter #japan #temple #tokyo #free #festival