The Japanese New Year's Festival, Games and Pastimes

Delving into the vibrant world of Japan’s New Year celebrations, this work uses a distinctive set of wood‑block prints—surimono—to reveal the rituals, games, and everyday life that have shaped the holiday for centuries. Unlike the more familiar decorative prints, these finely crafted images were exchanged as gifts among poets and artists, often embellished with metallic powders and poetry, offering a unique window into the cultural fabric of early twentieth‑century Japan.

Through vivid illustrations and clear explanations, the book walks listeners through the season’s most memorable customs: the ceremonial “demon‑driving” bean scattering, the meticulous house‑sweeping known as soot‑sweeping, and the preparation of a hearty red‑bean stew shared with family and servants. Alongside these traditions, it highlights the festive games and pastimes that enliven the fourteen‑day celebration, providing a rich, visual guide to a holiday that blends solemn rites with joyous communal activities.