[Simple and Fun] New Year’s Quizzes Recommended for Seniors

Nara

The flavor of zoni varies by region across the country, doesn’t it? In Nara Prefecture, it’s a sweet miso-based zoni served with sweet kinako on the side. They say the sweet-and-salty taste is addictive.

To layer blessings

These days, osechi cuisine has become quite compact. Originally, I hear that a five-tiered stacked set was the standard. Getting together on New Year’s Day and eating osechi with everyone is a fun way to spend the holiday, isn’t it?

black soybeans

Black soybeans are said to have the power to ward off evil. Since ancient times, the color black has been considered effective for driving away malevolent spirits. They also carry the wish for good health in the new year. Additionally, because of the word mame (which can mean both “bean” and “diligent”), they may be imbued with the hope that one will work diligently.

Be kind to your digestive system and wish for good health free of illness.

Many people tend to overeat during the New Year holidays, don’t they? That’s why on January 7th, there’s a custom of eating nanakusa-gayu (seven-herb rice porridge) to give your stomach and intestines a rest. It’s said that nanakusa-gayu has the power to soothe a tired digestive system, so people eat it while praying for good health and safety from illness.

Cleaning

New Year’s Day is the day we welcome the god of good fortune. That’s why cleaning is considered inauspicious, as it would be like driving the deity away. It may also carry the meaning of encouraging people to rest their bodies and spend the holiday at a leisurely pace.