shimekazari

Shimekazari are traditional Japanese New Year's decorations. The word itself, shimekazari, can be translated as "wreath" or "gateway decoration." These arrangements are typically hung on the doors of homes and businesses to welcome the Toshigami, the deity of the New Year, and to ward off evil spirits. The act of hanging shimekazari is a ritualistic practice intended to purify the space and invite good fortune for the coming year.

The materials used in shimekazari vary widely, but common elements include pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms, which symbolize longevity, prosperity, and resilience, respectively. Ferns are often included to represent fertility, and oranges (daidai) signify continuous good fortune. Small straw ropes called shimenawa, often adorned with paper strips, are also frequently incorporated. These components are carefully arranged into aesthetically pleasing and symbolically rich displays.

Shimekazari are generally displayed from the end of December until January 7th or 15th, depending on the region and local customs. After the period of display, they are often taken to a temple or shrine to be burned in a ritual called Dondo-yaki or Sagicho, a ceremony that signifies the return of the Toshigami and the purification of the old year's blessings. The practice of displaying shimekazari remains a cherished tradition in Japan, marking the transition into the new year with a blend of spiritual significance and artistic expression.