Colombia
Colombians carry empty suitcases around the block in hopes of a
travel-filled year.
Japan
The Japanese decorate their front doors with pine branches and
bamboo to bring health and long life. They may also add fans, seaweed,
or ferns for happiness and good luck. Children are given small gifts
of money called otoshidamas. At midnight, bells and gongs are rung
108 times to chase away 108 troubles, and people laugh to drive away
the bad spirits.•
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