The is a character chosen by the through a national ballot in Japan, starting in 1995. The character with the most votes, selected to represent the events of that year, is announced in a ceremony on December 12 (Kanji Day) at Kiyomizu Temple.
Japan also holds an annual word of the year contest called "the " (Shingo ryà «kà Âgo taishà Â), sponsored by the publisher (by since 2004).