1. What dishes are traditionally served on the New Year's table in Japan? 2. What is the meaning of " oseki " and how is it prepared? 3. What is " hanekawa " and how is it related to the New Year holidays? 4. How do the Japanese celebrate the first day of the new year? 5. What customs are associated with visiting temples in The New Year period? 6. What role do New Year's cards ( nenga ) play in Japanese culture? 7. How do the Japanese celebrate zen, and what does it mean to them?
Oseki is traditionally served on the New Year's table in Japan, which consists of various dishes symbolizing good luck and prosperity. " Oseki " is a set of special dishes that are prepared in advance and served in beautiful boxes, often divided into levels. " Hanekawa " is a tradition associated with decorating houses with bamboo and pine, symbolizing longevity and durability. On New Year's Day, Japanese people usually spend time with their family, play traditional games and exchange gifts. Visiting temples ( hatiman ) during the New Year period is considered an important ritual where people pray for health and well-being in the new year. New Year's cards ( nenga ) are sent to friends and relatives with wishes of happiness and health for the new year. "Zen " is a holiday when the Japanese celebrate the arrival of the new year with various rituals, including the ringing of bells in temples, which symbolizes purification from the sins of the old year.
