Cold and snowy hatsumode

Did you make a trip to a local shrine for hatsumode this year? We went to Kinpu Shrine in Nagaoka, and it wasn't actually too busy at all. I think a big part of that was probably the weather, since it has been pretty cold and snowy outside. I can understand people not wanting to linger around for too long.

The goshuin that they had were depicting yabusame (traditional horseback archery), which seemed like an appropriate choice for the Year of the Horse. There were also a few stalls set up selling food and drinks, so it was a pleasant, festival-like atmosphere. 

Anyway, if you're ever looking for a less-crowded hatsumode option, maybe a snowy region spot is worth considering! I can't guarantee it, but it could be a way to mitigate some of the busy-feeling.