2024 41th Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-U (初卯) - First Performance of the Year! - ONLINENEW
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JACCC Main: Japan American Cultural & Community Center, Little Tokyo
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Los Angeles, CA 90012
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JACCC is pleased to present the 41st Annual Kotohajime virtually on January 1, 2024 at 2 pm. We invite the public to join this free virtual event as JACCC celebrates new beginnings.
In 1983, Hirokazu Kosaka, JACCC Master Artist Residence, shot the first arrow of Kotohajime 事始め. The event has grown to become JACCC’s signature New Year’s celebration. Meaning “the beginning of things”, the memorable 41st Kotohajime will celebrate 2024, the Year of the Dragon, with the theme Hatsu-Akebono (First Dawn). In Japan, dragons represent fortune and are also messengers of the gods. The Dragon symbolizes power, nobleness, and honor.
This year, we will present a tea ceremony in fields full of poppy flowers at dawn, Kimono Organization Nadeshiko-kai, and the Los Angeles Kyudo Kai who are celebrating their 108th anniversary in Little Tokyo.
Event Date
Jan 1, 2024
Event Time
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Where
Online - JACCC.org
About Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-U (初卯)
The Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-U (初卯), or First of the Year, is a traditional Japanese event that marks the beginning of a new year. It usually occurs in January or early February, and celebrates the arrival of spring.
During this special time, people gather to observe ceremonies and rituals that honor the gods and bring good luck for the upcoming year. Special foods are prepared, such as mochi (rice cakes) stuffed with sweet beans, seaweed soup and a variety of fish dishes. Traditional decorations are also put up in homes and establishments to signify prosperity and happiness.
In some areas, special events such as processions, dances, and plays are held to mark the occasion. People dress in traditional Japanese clothing and parade through the streets, carrying banners and playing music.
At the end of the day, people come together for a communal feast where they exchange gifts and offer prayers for peace and prosperity. It is an important tradition that serves as a reminder of Japan’s deep cultural heritage, and is a joyous occasion to be enjoyed by all.
The Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-U (初卯) is an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture firsthand and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the beginning of a new year.
Event Title
Annual Kotohajime: Hatsu-U (初卯) - First Performance of the Year! - ONLINE
Disclaimer: Please double check all information provided on our platform with the official website for complete accuracy and up-to-date details.
Monday, 1 January, 2024
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