Worshippers flocked to a shrine in central Tokyo in the early hours of New Year's Day to pray for good luck in 2023.

Crowds of people gathered at Meiji Jingu before midnight on New Year's Eve. They waited in line to hear the sound of a drum that signaled the arrival of the New Year.

They threw monetary offerings into a fenced-off area and offered prayers.

A woman in her 20s said she will start a new job this year, and is looking forward to trying various things.

A man in his 50s said he prayed for an end to military conflicts and the coronavirus pandemic, hoping the world will become peaceful.

A visitor in her 40s expressed hope that the day will soon come when children will take off their masks, so that people can see their smiles.

The shrine usually attracts more than 3 million worshippers during the first three days of January.