In Japan parents buy new clothes for their children by the New Year, in which they meet him. According to their ancient belief it brings good luck for a whole year and good health. On New Year's Eve children hide under the pillow a picture depicting a sailboat on which seven fairy magicians are swimming - seven patrons of happiness.
All the main streets in northern Japanese cities are decorated with large ice sculptures, palaces of ice.
The table is served with symbolic food: rice - a sign…