Kagami biraki
January 11, Thursday
History and Meaning of the Festival
Kagami Biraki has deep historical roots and is associated with samurai traditions and Shinto culture. The name "kagami" means "mirror" and "biraki" means "opening". In ancient times, round rice cakes resembling the shape of a mirror were used as offerings to the gods, symbolizing harmony, purity and light. In Japanese mythology, the mirror has a special meaning as one of the sacred symbols of imperial power.
Kagami-mochi are two round rice cakes, one on top of the other, with a Japanese orange, daidai, on top. These cakes are placed in homes at the beginning of the new year as an offering to the deities (kami) to bring good luck, happiness, and health.
The ritual itself
On Kagami Biraki, the family breaks the kagami-mochi to separate them and eat them. The breaking process has its own symbolic meaning: kagami-mochi cannot be cut with a knife, as this is considered unfavorable, so it is broken into pieces using hands or a hammer.
The pieces of kagami-mochi are then added to traditional dishes such as oshiruko (sweet red bean soup with rice cakes) or zoni (soup with rice cakes and vegetables), which the family eats together. This symbolizes the beginning of a new year and strengthening the spirit for the future.
Modern Traditions
Today, Kagami Biraki is an important part of New Year's ceremonies in Japan. It is often celebrated in both private homes and temples, especially in budo (martial arts) schools such as kendo, judo, and aikido. In such schools, students and masters gather for a ritual opening of the training year, accompanied by a shared meal of kagami mochi and sake.
Kagami biraki in other years
- 2021 January 11, Monday
- 2022 January 11, Tuesday
- 2023 January 11, Wednesday
- 2025 January 11, Saturday