January 11: Kagami-Biraki People wish a happy year while eating Kagami-Mochi, which was presented to the gods, cooked in rice cake soup or sweet Azuki porridge. They show gratitude to the gods and wish for good health. Around March 21: Ohigan (Spring) During spring, Ohigan is considered a day for praising nature and appreciating living things. To convey their gratitude to their ancestors, people offer Bota-Mochi, a sticky rice ball covered in sweet Azuki bean paste. Bota Mochi May 5: Children's Day (Boy's Day) This day is also known as “Tango no Sekku” (boy's festival). On this day, people celebrate that their children have grown up in good health. Displaying Samurai helmets and flying Koinobori carp streamers, they also take a hot bath with lily roots and leaves. Traditionally, people also eat Kashiwa-Mochi a mochi (filled with sweetened Azuki bean paste and wrapped in oak leaves). Kashiwa-Mochi Around September 23: Ohigan (Autumn) In autumn, Ohigan is a day of respecting ancestors and remembrance of the departed. To convey their gratitude to their ancestors, people offer Ohagi, a sticky rice ball covered in sweet azuki bean paste. November 15: Shichi-Go-San On November 15 of the year children turn three, five, or seven, people celebrate their children's growth. On this day, people enjoy sweet Chitose-Ame, praying for the growth and longevity of children, and Sekihan rice cooked with Azuki beans to prevent disaster. Sekihan Around December 22: Tohji This day has the shortest day and the longest night. On this day, people bathe in yuzu lemons and enjoy kabocha squash and adzuki for nourishment and pray for good health. They also eat rice porridge with Azuki. By doing so, people believe that they can avoid catching a cold.
