#186: Shinnen-kai (Semiweekly-pedia of Japan)

#186: Shinnen-kai (category: seasonal event)

Shinnen-kai is an old-established Japanese custom. It is a gathering held in January, sometimes only a couple of weeks after Bonnen-kai (refer to #181) in December, to confirm bonds with their coworkers and friends. But it is often just an excuse for them to hold an amusing gathering.

The Japanese word "shinnen" is "new year" in English and "kai" is "gathering", respectively. So, "Shinnen-kai" literally means "new year gathering". More clearly, it is a gathering to celebrate the new year and pray for their happiness.

(Friday, January 9th, 2015)    See Archive