New Year's Bell（除夜の鐘）

One of the traditions during the period of the Japanese New Year is the striking of the "New Year's Bell". Beginning at the stroke of midnight, the large bells seen in the various Buddhist temples around Japan are struck 108 times, a process that continues on into New Year's Day. The significance of the number 108 originates in Buddhist teachings, which specify 108 earthly desires which are the root of human suffering. With each stroke of the bell, one of these desires is cast off, and one's heart is purified in preparation for the new year. The significance of this "purification" is seen in other forms of celebration during this time. New Year's Eve, or ōmisoka 大晦日, is a period when much preparation happens for the New Year. It is common to clean one's house or prepare large amounts of food during this day. However in contrast to this, the new year is supposed to be met with quiet reflection, and indeed New Year's "parties" as seen in most other countries are not common in Japan. This bell is supposed to be the point where people can switch modes as they begin the new year.