2025.01.31

3 Things You Should Experience during the New Year in Japan

新年を日本で過ごすなら絶対にやるべき3つのこと

At U Share, we kicked off the new year with exciting cultural experiences! From a peaceful shrine visit to hands-on calligraphy and mochi-making, our residents got a taste of Japan’s rich traditions. Here’s how we celebrated Oshogatsu (New Year’s) together!

1. First Shrine Visit: A New Year’s Blessing

On January 5, we visited Anahachiman Shrine for hatsumōde, the first shrine visit of the year. As we walked to the shrine, we shared fun facts about shrine etiquette, the differences between shrines and temples, and the meaning of lucky charms. The shrine was bustling with energy, and our residents loved browsing stalls filled with maneki-neko, zodiac figurines, and other lucky items.

After making our prayers, we drew omikuji (fortune slips). Since they were in Japanese, we translated them on the spot! This sparked deep conversations about Shinto traditions, and we were amazed by the insightful questions our residents asked. We wrapped up the trip with taiyaki (sweet fish-shaped pastries) and a hearty ramen lunch near U Share.

2. Calligraphy: Writing Your Intentions for the Year

On January 7, we gathered at U Share Nishi Waseda for kakizome, the first calligraphy of the year.
We started with a quick brush tutorial and let everyone choose a kanji from five pre-printed examples. At first, the strokes felt tricky, but soon everyone got the hang of it! Some even wrote their own New Year’s resolutions, making the experience more personal and meaningful.
Our international residents were thrilled to see their names written in katakana, a fun introduction to Japanese writing! The careful brush movements and flowing ink created a calming atmosphere, helping residents focus and appreciate the beauty of Japanese calligraphy.

3. Mochi-Making: A Tasty New Year Tradition

Next, we rolled up our sleeves for some mochi-making fun! Using pre-cooked glutinous rice, we mashed and pounded it into the perfect chewy texture. It was a true teamwork challenge—one person held the rice cooker while another pounded away with a pestle!
We had a spread of toppings—sweet red bean, kinako (roasted soybean flour), soy sauce, seaweed, and zunda (sweet mashed edamame). The freshly made mochi was a hit, vanishing in minutes as everyone tried different flavor combinations! The hands-on process made the experience even more satisfying.

A Fresh Start to 2025

At U Share, you don’t just live in Japan—you experience it! Whether it’s visiting shrines, trying calligraphy, or making mochi, we love bringing people together to celebrate Japanese traditions in an interactive and meaningful way.
If you want to dive into authentic cultural experiences and connect with a global community, come join us! We can’t wait for more fun, learning, and new friendships in 2025!

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Frequently Asked Questions
For being eligible to apply, do I have to be a university student?
Yes. Any individual enrolled in any type of higher education program is eligible to apply to live at U Share Student Nishi Waseda.
What furniture items comes with each room?
Each room comes with a bed (frame, mattress, sheets, pillows, blanket included), wardrobe, table, table lamp, above-table shelf, and airconditioning.
Can I go to visit U Share Student Nishi Waseda to see the space before applying, and if so, when?
Yes, you can make a reservation through our website contact form informing us of your preferred dates and times for visiting. We will then contact you directly to schedule a visit.
What are the educational and career seminars and how often are they held?
We hold various events regularly throughout the year. This includes inviting individuals to talk about their past experiences and knowledge, or inviting professionals with abundant experience in the real world, giving residents opportunities to find their own career path.
Living Together, Growing Together.
Living Together, Growing Together.
Living Together, Growing Together.
Living Together, Growing Together.