Hi, everybody ! Let me say “A Happy New Year” first. How was your new-year days ? I enjoyed it very much.＾＾ So, today, I report what I did during New Year Holidays.
On the New Year’s Eve, I visited S-Pulse Dream Plaza for Count-down. It’s kind of my annual event. I was there around 23:30 and saw many people dancing with cheerful music. Air of excitement in the chilly night.

I bought a cup of coffee to warm myself and to wait for the time. A few minutes before midnight, all lights went out. And finally, with the sound of whiz, fireworks began ! The moment of the year to go, and to come. How would I be this year ?

On the same day, Jan 1st, after I had a good sleep, I went out for Hatsumode. What was my first dream, by the way ? I didn’t see the first sunrise because I had had too much sleep.＞＜ Anyway, Hatsumode. I visited Shizuoka Sengen Shrine. Thousands of people were already there as I had expected. Along the approach were hundreds of food stands. I love it to find new snacks. I had some of them as usuall.＾＾
Some people were in Japanese traditional kimono to start the very first day in their best clothes. It was absolutely impossible for me to conform to the formal way of visit as I had explained in “Mishima Taisha Shrine” because of too many visitors. I was only swept away in the crowds and found myself walking just in the middle of the walkway, possibly violating god’s coming and going. By the time I got to the Honden area, I must confess I was dog-tired. I tossed some coins and swung the rope to ring the bell, hoping I could be myself this year.

In Japan, there are some more to do during New Year days. I will get some opportunity to introduce them.
Anyway, I’ll keep you posted about hot tourist information in Shizuoka Prefecture this year, too. Any question or request is absolutely welcome.

Have a good day !

“Shizuoka Guide” is our official English blog website for events & sightseeing. Always with you ! ＾＾