"Kadomatsu"

"Kadomatsu," New Year pine tree decoration

Hello. I got my hair cut today. It's refreshing!😉

Christmas is over, and now we're busy with the preparations for the new year. We have to get ready for a special decoration: "Kadomatsu" or "gate pine tree decoration." It is for welcoming "Toshigami-sama," literally "year deity," who is believed to visit each home to bring happiness on New Year’s day. It is because the deity will not come if we don't invite them. As the sign for invitation, we have to place "kadomatsu" in front of houses during the New Year. It means "we're totally ready to welcome you, toshigami-sama." 

Pine trees are believed to be the place where the spirits of the deities reside. And they are the symbol of longevity for its evergreen color. They are very auspicious trees.

Tomorrow, I'm introducing other special ornament, "Shimekazari."😃