Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Japanese traditional culture ~7~ Kadomatu

Now, in Japan, people are preparing for the new year.
I would like to introduce Kadomatsu.(門松)
This is a Kadomatsu.
Kado(門)= gate
Matsu(松)=a pine
Some of Japanese people set this kadomatu at the gate of house or shop.
This is a kind of decoration of the new year.
Kadomatsu is made by pine and bamboo. 
People prepare for this kadomatsu from on 13th until 28th December.
I heard that you should not prepare on 31th December. It is called
"Ichiya kazari" (=One night decoration) It means, it means you neglect
this tradition, that is, you neglect God.
Traditionally, it is said that God stay near the pine. So kadomatsu is
for inviting God to each house.
I heard that this kadomatsu has long history. It is said that this tradition
started from Heian period.(794~1192)

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