On New Year's Day, January 1, 2025, the weather was fine, and shrines and temples in Kyoto City were crowded with worshippers for the first time of the year. In the refreshing air of the new year, people quietly put their hands together and prayed for good health and safety in their homes.
Local people and foreign tourists on bus tours visited Shimogamo Shrine (Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City), a World Heritage Site, from the morning. The line of people visiting the main shrine gradually grew longer, and by the afternoon it had stretched to the approach to Tadasu Forest, where numerous outdoor stalls were lined up. A bonfire was set up near the south entrance torii gate, and worshippers could be seen rubbing their hands to keep warm.
A company employee (28 years old) who was visiting with friends from Kakamigahara City, Gifu Prefecture said, "I lived in Kyoto when I was a student, so it's been a while since I last visited. There were many disasters last year, so I prayed for a peaceful year this year," and purchased amulets, sacred arrows, and other items.
At Shimogamo Shrine, the traditional New Year's "Kemari Hajime" ceremony will be held on January 4th.
