The start of "Osouji", the deep cleaning for New Year

Today, December 13th, in Japan is the start of a thorough cleaning of the house for the new Year in Japan. It is called Ōsōji (大掃除) in Japanese, and is just one element of New year preparations. Probably, the most time consuming one too!

Osoji is a is a major end-of-year ritual involving a deep, thorough cleaning of homes, businesses, and temples to spiritually purify spaces. Traditionally, "Susuharai", which means 'soot sweeping', was carried out on this day to sweep away the past year's dust and welcome the Toshigami (New Year God) for good fortune in the new year.

This tradition involves scrubbing, decluttering, and cleaning all areas, from ceilings to windows to entryways, symbolizing a fresh start. It's not just about physical dirt either; it's about removing negative energy and bad luck to create a harmonious environment for the New Year. Do you do "osouji" every year? Or are you more of a "spring cleaning" type of person? Perhaps you do both!?