The event, rooted in Japanese mythology, had participants laughing loudly for 20 minutes. Some laughed while looking at one another, while others captured their smiles on their phones.
A 17-year-old attendee from Kyoto said the ritual turned out to be surprisingly fun, while a first-time participant from Kagoshima described it as a memorable family experience. The laughter, symbolising renewal and hope, created a joyful start to the coming year.