Sea Lupinus

Let's start a scuba diving at just before sixty years old

My town is in preparation for our New Year

2014-12-29 16:00:00 | 日記

  A kadomatsu ("gate pine") is a traditional Japanese decoration of the New Year placed in pairs in front of homes to welcome ancestral spirits or kami of the harvest.  They are placed after Christmas until January 7 (or January 15 during the Edo period) and are considered temporary housing (shintai) for kami.  Designs for kadomatsu vary depending on region but are typically made of pine, bamboo, and sometimes ume tree sprigs which represent longevity, prosperity and steadfastness, respectively.   "The fundamental function of the New Year ceremonies is to honor and receive the toshigami (deity), who will then bring a bountiful harvest for farmers and bestow the ancestors' blessing on everyone."  After January 15 (or in many instances the 19th) the kadomatsu is burned to appease the kami or toshigami and release them.

The New Year's decorative pine trees

Shimenawa ropes and small flower arrangements for the New Year

A big votive picture tablet of a horse (a sheep)

Many wishes for New Year