first-birthday mochi-carrying custom
A traditional Japanese custom where a large mochi is tied to a toddler's back on their first birthday, symbolizing wishes for a strong and healthy life.
On the child's first birthday, we performed the mochi-carrying ceremony.
The mochi for the first-birthday custom is made a bit smaller so the child can carry it on their back.
From 餅 (mochi, 'rice cake') + 負い (oi, 'carrying on one's back'). The exact historical origin is uncertain, but it is a traditional Japanese custom.