Happy New Year

Seki at night is an empty place. You rarely see anybody walking around. Those out are getting exercise or driving through on the way to somewhere better. But last night just after eleven thirty people began to appear on the streets, just the odd couple or family, a few teenagers on bikes. Everyone wearing scarves and gloves and coats. At quater to twelve a gong could be heard at regular intervals from one of the temples. We walked through Seki to Sensoji temple where a huge queue of people waited to ring the bell themselves starting at midnight. We weaved past the queue and arrived in the temple grounds just as midnight struck and the first gong began. The bell is struck 108 times to symbolise the 108 sins in buddhism and to rid people of the 108 worldly desires.                   A bonfire burned in the centre and all the small buildings were sheathed in flags or drapes. People drew lots for raffle prizes and in one corner a group of teenage girls were screeching and staggering around holding cans of lager. We toasted the new year and watched a few bell gongs before taking off on the traditional tour of temples. Kitta Kannon temple (nearer to our flat) hosted hot foot stalls around the bonfire just inside the first gate. We drew lots this time and were given small prizes. A ceremonial branch and an arrow with an offering plaque painted with a dragon for Mike. I also go the branch but a bag of snack foods and oddly some kitchen sponges.                 All over Japan large arrangements of bamboo and branches are displayed to celebrate new year. I've forgotten to take any pictures but here's a link to one that gives you the idea. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kadomatsu_Kyoto_JPN_001.jpg It's forbidden to take pictures inside Kitta Kannon but it's a very beautiful temples with steps up to different buildings with different statues inside them and lots of candles burning. There is a three story Pagoda to one side and I think it rivals the beauty of Kyoto a little. So a very atmospheric, peaceful and spiritual New Year's eve. Happy New Year.Love Jo