Kagami Biraki is the traditional Japanese ceremony to welcome in the New Year, typically held in the first weekend of the year.
It has been a part of martial arts practice since Jigoro Kano introduced it to the Kodokan in 1884. (The above picture shows uki-otoshi, the first technique of nage no kata, being demonstrated at the Kodokan in the 2019 Kagami Biraki).
The modern martial arts practice of Kagami Biraki enables all students to come together and train as preparation for the new year.
Hampshire Judo will be hosting its first squad session of 2020 on Sunday 5th January at Fleming Park Leisure Centre, from 10:00 to 12 noon. All adult players and juniors aged 8+ are welcome to attend.
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