{"id":2288,"date":"2023-12-26T12:17:27","date_gmt":"2023-12-26T03:17:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.guidoor.jp\/yokosuka\/?post_type=news&p=2288"},"modified":"2024-05-06T05:07:29","modified_gmt":"2024-05-05T20:07:29","slug":"best-spots-in-yokosuka-first-sunrise","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/www.guidoor.jp\/yokosuka\/new-and-now\/best-spots-in-yokosuka-first-sunrise\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Best Spots to Watch the First Sunrise on New Year’s Day in Yokosuka"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Explore the ’13 Best Spots to Watch the First Sunrise on New Year’s Day in Yokosuka’ guide to discover the perfect locations. In this article, we will delve into why watching the first sunrise is a traditional event in Japan, introducing the reasons and recommending spots. Let’s welcome the upcoming new year in a special way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Has Watching the First Sunrise Become a New Year Tradition?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In Japan, it has been believed since ancient times that the deity of the year, who brings prosperity and happiness to each household every New Year, appears with the first sunrise. Observing the “\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” is considered auspicious, and by praying during this event, people express their wishes for a bountiful and happy year, aligning with the presence of the deity of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"photo<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

“\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” (Hatsuhinode) and “\u3054\u6765\u5149” (Goraikou)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In Japanese culture, the terms “\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” (Hatsuhinode) and “\u3054\u6765\u5149” (Goraikou) both revolve around the sunrise, but they carry distinct meanings and cultural significance. Let’s explore each term and its associated beliefs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“\u3054\u6765\u5149” (Goraikou) – The Revered Sunrise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

“\u3054\u6765\u5149” refers to the sunrise, particularly revered when observed from high mountains or mountain peaks. Originally written as \u5fa1\u6765\u8fce (goraigou), it described the phenomenon where one’s shadow is cast onto high clouds near the summit, creating a colorful halo resembling a Buddha statue. The famous “\u3054\u6765\u5149” of Mount Fuji is well-known, with the belief that higher mountains bring earlier sunrises, symbolizing greater blessings. However, “\u3054\u6765\u5149” can be observed from various mountains, not limited to Mount Fuji.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” (Hatsuhinode) – The New Year’s Day Sunrise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

“\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” specifically refers to the sunrise on New Year’s Day. Any sunrise observed on this day is considered a “\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa,” but it becomes a “\u3054\u6765\u5149” when witnessed from a high mountain. The cultural practice of clasping hands in prayer during sunrise is associated with both phenomena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Distinct Objects of Worship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While observing “\u3054\u6765\u5149” and “\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa,” there is a distinct difference in the objects of worship. “\u3054\u6765\u5149” is associated with Buddhism, symbolizing the light carried by Buddha as he approaches. In contrast, “\u521d\u65e5\u306e\u51fa” is linked to Shintoism, where it is believed that the deity of the year, associated with bountiful harvests and happiness, descends with the first sunrise of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

“\u56db\u65b9\u62dd” (Shihouhai) refers to the ritual of bowing in the four directions, conducted on New Year’s Day at 5:30 am in a facility located in the southern garden of the Shinkaden (the main palace of the Imperial Palace), where the Emperor prays for the peace and prosperity of the nation and its people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mt. Ogusu<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Photo<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

At the summit rest area (View House) of Mount Ogusu, the observation tower is currently not available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the highest peak of the Miura Peninsula, the summit plaza offers views of Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay. There are several trails leading to the summit, but the Ashina-guchi Course is recommended due to the dimly lit mountain paths. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u25a0 There is no parking available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n