In Japanese tradition, eating mochi on or around the New Year will bring good luck. Los Angeles Times via Getty Images Mochi is made by mashing rice in a large mortar and pestle.

If you ever get the chance, go to Japan to see some fights on New Year’s Eve. It doesn’t matter who’s fighting. Maybe it’ll be someone in full cosplay gear. Maybe a nearly 50-year-old ...

Living Portland Japanese Garden kicks off the Year of the Snake with O-Shogatsu Festival Updated: Jan. 17, 2025, 10:04 a.m. | Published: Jan. 12, 2025, 5:19 p.m.