On January 6th, 2025, in Japan, which marks the first day back to work for most companies after about a week of holidays, employees returned to their workstations. However, instead of immediately diving into work, the majority of workers and business owners collectively headed to shrines for worship.
It is widely known that the Japanese people hold deep reverence for spirits, with shrines of all sizes scattered throughout the country. Particularly, the Kanda Shrine, located in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo (also known as “Kanda Myojin”), sees many corporate executives and employees making a special trip on the first workday of the year to pray for smooth work and prosperous business in the new year.
Established in the year 730 AD, Kanda Shrine was relocated to its current site during the Edo period (1603-1867) and has long been considered a “power spot” believed to safeguard the country’s well-being, promote business prosperity, and ensure family harmony. Moreover, this shrine is one of the few tourist spots open 24 hours a day, welcoming visitors at any time.
Photographs from the scene show that early in the morning today, many office workers and businessmen clad in suits formed long lines outside the shrine. Inside, worshippers folded their hands in prayer, some even tossing coins in hopes of a smooth new year. The atmosphere was both magnificent and solemn.