Kagami Biraki
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Nationwide (households and dojos)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Low crowd
Photos
Breaking of New Year mochi decorations, symbolizing new beginnings.
Kagami Biraki is the traditional ceremony of breaking open the kagami mochi (round mirror-shaped rice cakes) that were offered to the gods during the New Year period. Held on January 11th, the hardened mochi is cracked open (never cut with a knife, as cutting is considered inauspicious) and eaten in ozoni soup or oshiruko sweet red bean soup. Martial arts dojos across Japan also observe Kagami Biraki with the year's first training session.
At a Glance
- Type
- Seasonal
- Dates
- 2026-01-11 – 2026-01-11
- Venue
- Nationwide (households and dojos)
- Status
- Ended
- Crowd Level
- Low crowd
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I confirm the official status of Kagami Biraki?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.nipponbudokan.or.jp/.
What is the current status of Kagami Biraki?
The current listing status is ended. Last checked: 2026-03-10.
How crowded is Kagami Biraki?
The typical crowd level is low.
What are the highlights of Kagami Biraki?
Breaking open kagami mochi with a wooden mallet; Eating the mochi in ozoni soup or oshiruko sweet bean soup; First martial arts training sessions of the year at dojos
Highlights
Breaking open kagami mochi with a wooden mallet; Eating the mochi in ozoni soup or oshiruko sweet bean soup; First martial arts training sessions of the year at dojos
Access
Observed at homes and dojos nationwide. For martial arts Kagami Biraki events, check local dojo schedules. The Nippon Budokan (near Kudanshita Station, Tokyo Metro) hosts notable events.
Tips for Visitors
If you have kagami mochi at home, use a wooden mallet or your hands to break it — never use a knife. The dried mochi can be deep-fried into arare crackers or added to soups. Visit a martial arts dojo to observe or participate in the first training of the year.
Location
📍 Nationwide (households and dojos)
