Hatsumode.

"Hatsumode" is The first Shinto shrine visit of the New Year.

Some people visit Buddhist temple instead.

People pray for a long life and happiness for the year.

Since I worked on New Years day,I visited my favorite shrine "Futaara-san Jinnya" yesterday.

After praying,people buy "omamori"(good-luck charms of amulets.) They wear this charm all the time with them. 

The old "omamori" are returned to the shrine then they can be burned.

I bought this one. I put it in my purse so it always with me to bring me happiness this year.