Kyoto
Jan 7
Gokounomiya Shrine
Seven-leaf Rice Porridge, otherwise known as Nanakusa-gayu is traditionally eaten on this day to pray for good health. A simple rice porridge is combined with a mixture of the leaves of seven plants, typically including turnip and radish, but can be modified depending on the region and what is in season. This festival has taken place since the Edo period at Gokounomiya Jinja, a shrine known for its fresh-tasting water which is used to make the porridge. Bowls of the healthy porridge can be purchased for ¥300.