New Year in Japan 2010

Like last year, we spent the new year in Japan. This was the sight that welcomed me on 1st January 2010. The sight of the majestic Mount Fuji, as seen from the living room of my in-laws' place. This year, the new year period was a very cold period (it was snowing heavily all over Japan, except for the Kanto area). Arriving at Narita airport clad only in a long-sleeve t-shirt (I checked in my jacket since it was bulky and Singapore was hot) wasn't really the best idea. But somehow, I managed to survive the cold.

There is also the new year food (osechi), very traditional. In a way, the new year is a period of rest, even for housewives, so the food is prepared in advance and meant to last for a day or two.
Hatsumode (初詣) was at Kashima Shrine too! This year, we went on New Year Day itself. Except that this time, it is with the baby, all wrapped up to withstand the cold.
And we did the annual trip to Kawasaki Taishi. To pray for a good year ahead, as well as the enjoy the food at the street market there. Guess which is the main reason?
And another picture of Mount Fuji, on another day, a slightly different look, but just as majestic.