The Japanese New Year - A Time for Silence and Renewal -
While New Year's Eve in the U.S. is often celebrated with countdown parties and fireworks, in Japan, it is a time of profound quiet and spirituality. It is not just a holiday, but a sacred moment to cleanse the mind and spirit.
Japanese New Year decorations embody this unique philosophy through three key concepts:
The Spirit of Renewal:
It marks a complete "reset" for your spirit, washing away the past year to begin anew with a pure heart.
Welcoming the "Toshigami":
We believe a deity of the New Year, called Toshigami, visits each home to bring happiness. These decorations serve as a sacred landmark or beacon to guide the deity to your door.
Deep Symbolism:
Every material used has a meaning. Pine represents longevity, white paper signifies purity, and straw ropes ward off evil. It is a collection of wishes for prosperity and protection.
Welcome the New Year with Japanese Tradition.
Shimekazari
Shimekazari is often hung on the front door, similar to a wreath. However, its purpose is to ward off evil spirits and create a sacred boundary, ensuring a pure space for the New Year.
・When to Display
Timing is key in Japanese tradition. Unlike Christmas trees which often stay up for a while, these decorations have a specific window. We typically display them right after Christmas (Dec 26th–28th) and take them down on Jan 7th or 15th. This limited time makes the ritual feel special and sacred.
・More Than a Wreath
While Shimekazari resembles a wreath, it is best described as a 'Sacred Rope Decoration' or a 'New Year’s Guardian.' It is not for Christmas; its purpose is to ward off bad luck and create a pure, protected boundary for your home to welcome the New Year.
・Meaning of Colors
Every color in the decoration tells a story and holds a wish for the future:
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Red: Protection against evil spirits.
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White: Purity and cleanliness.
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Gold: Wealth and prosperity.
- Green: Longevity and health.
The Zodiac Ornament
Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten: Papier mache_Bobbing Horse L
Your Lucky Guardian for the Whole Year
While standard New Year's decorations are taken down in January, the Zodiac Ornament (Eto-kazari) is special. It depicts the animal of the year and is designed to be displayed all year round to invite good fortune into your home.
Originally, the Zodiac was used to count time, dates, and directions. Animals were assigned to each year so that even common people who couldn't read could easily understand the system. Over time, this practical system merged with Japanese spirituality—the belief that objects can hold our unseen wishes. Today, these figurines serve as vessels to welcome the specific blessings of that year's animal.
・Where to place it?
You can display it anywhere you like—your living room, entrance, or desk. Important Rule: Please avoid placing it in the bathroom. In Japanese tradition, the bathroom is considered an 'impure' place and is not suitable for lucky charms.
・Reusing it
Unlike perishable decorations, you can keep this ornament out for the entire year. After the year ends, simply store it away. You can bring it out again in 12 years when the animal's turn comes back around!
MAG MANEKI
CHUGAITOEN: MAG MANEKI White M
The “MAG MANEKI” was born from a collaboration between product designer Shigeki Fujishiro and Chugai Toen.
This magnetic beckoning cat allows you to easily swap its head, body, and arms to match your wishes or preferences.
In Japanese tradition, the right paw of a beckoning cat is said to invite good fortune and wealth, while the left paw invites people and connections.
With MAG MANEKI’s magnetic structure, you can effortlessly switch between right and left paws depending on the occasion.
Its simple, geometric design—composed of perfect circles and squares—blends seamlessly into any interior style.
By combining the sacred silence of the Shimekazari with the year-long protection of the Zodiac and the cheerful invitation of the Lucky Cat, you are all set for a year filled with harmony and success. Let’s celebrate a fresh start with the spirit of Japan!
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