During Japan's Ōmisoka New Year's Eve observance, Buddhist temple bells are traditionally rung 108 times.
The ceremony is called joyanokane, and it takes place at temples around midnight on December 31. The 108 strikes represent the bonnō, or earthly desires and mental afflictions in Buddhist thought. Ringing the bell is understood to help people leave these troubles behind as the old year ends.
Japanese New Year is called Shōgatsu, while Ōmisoka specifically means New Year's Eve. Families commonly clean their homes, prepare special food, and make arrangements for the first shrine or temple visit of the new year. Thus, the bell ceremony is one part of a broader seasonal observance.
The number is sometimes confused with the twelve months or the twelve midnight chimes familiar from Western celebrations. The 108 count has a religious meaning rather than representing a calendar division.