Japanese Philosophy: Decoration for New Year in Japan

Jan 7, 2016

Decoration for New Year in Japan

KON NICHIWA (Hello)!!
OGENKI DESUKA(How are you doing)??

Today is just about the day to take off decoration for new year in Japan.

I will tell you about "SHOUGATSU KAZARI" (SHOUGATSU; new year, KAZARI; decoration) today.

SHOGATSU KAZARI
What is SHOGATSU KAZARI??
They are decoration for new year and usually decorate before 31st Dec.
Some different kinds of SHOGATSU KAZARI, for entrance, door, etc.

KADOMATSU : Pine decoration
Usually they decorative gate of house, put both side like this.
This shows welcome to God for new year.
But these days, it's not so often can see in Tokyo because lots house is smaller than before and lots apartment here in Tokyo,

SHIMEKAZARI : Sacred Shinto rope with festoons

This is made by twisted straw rope with fern leaves, an orange and other items of good omen.

Usually that on a entrance door.

KAGAMIMOCHI ; Round rice cake
Two rounds of rice cakes and an orange on top.
Usually it decorate in Japanese room.

These 3 are famous and popular OSHOGATSU KAZARI, and if you come to Japan around new year, you will see everywhere.

Some people stop traditional celebrate for any event here, maybe not only here though.
That's why some people doesn't know the meaning of each decoration.

Long time ago, lots people make these by themselves at home, but these years lots people buy them at shops.

Not traditional way to decorate but these are very popular among young generation family!