On Thursday, January 1, 2026, the annual New Year’s event “Shinshun Mochitsuki & Hyakunin Isshu Tournament” will be held at the Bridge USA Event Center (20817 S. Western Ave., Torrance, CA 90501).
This event is a traditional celebration where families and friends can gather to welcome the New Year, and anyone is welcome to participate for free (reservations are recommended; ends when supplies run out).
There will be a mochi-pounding event where you can taste freshly made mochi, as well as Hyakunin Isshu and Karuta tournaments divided by age (Children’s division: 12 and under, Adult division: 13 and over). Participants will receive sweets and mochi as prizes.
Additionally, you can enjoy a variety of entertainment such as the auspicious Ryukyu Lion Dance, CALMOMMY STEAM workshops, Kyokushin Karate, and performances by Japanese dance teams.
Various game booths, food booths offering mochi, ozoni (New Year’s soup), drinks, and more will be available, creating an atmosphere where you can fully enjoy the feeling of a New Year’s shrine visit.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, January 1, 2026, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Venue: Bridge USA Event Center (20817 S. Western Ave., Torrance, CA 90501)
- Admission: Free (reservations prioritized)
- Mochitsuki (mochi-pounding) event: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (ends when supplies run out)
- Hyakunin Isshu & Karuta tournaments: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Children’s & Adult divisions)
Celebrate the start of the New Year with your family, enjoy freshly made mochi, and kick off a vibrant year together. For event details or reservations, please contact info@bridgeusa.com or visit www.bridgeusa.com.
