jeepney press

1) Shishimai (The Lion Dance)

During the Asuka Period (around the 7th century), the Lion Dance was introduced to Japan from China. It is performed during the New Year and is believed to exorcise demons, eradicate plagues, and entertain the gods.

Miniature “lion heads” are often displayed at the entrance of homes or in living rooms. People believe these lion heads guard the gates and prevent evil spirits from entering. When placed as decorations throughout the year, they are thought to continuously protect the health of the family living in the house.

2) Shimenawa (The Sacred Rope)

The New Year is not only a time to welcome the coming year, but also a time to welcome the gods. People believe that the gods visit each household to bestow the power to live happily. For this reason, preparations are made by decorating shrines and temples with shimenawa.

Shimenawa is a rope that serves as a talisman to prevent impurities from entering. It acts as a barrier separating the world of the gods, a pure place free from sin, from the human world. Shime means a place occupied by the gods, and nawa means rope.

Each region in Japan has its own style of shimenawa. Nowadays, it is displayed not only at temples and shrines, but also at house entrances or at small household shrines.

3) Kadomatsu (The Pine Gate)

Kadomatsu is a traditional New Year decoration intended to welcome the God of Harvest and is considered a temporary dwelling for the deity. It is usually placed in pairs, representing male and female, on either side of gates or entrances in front of homes and buildings. These are displayed after Christmas, from December 25 until January 7.

In the past, kadomatsu were made primarily from pine wood. In modern times, bamboo is commonly used, while more affordable versions are made from plastic.