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Monday, September 28, 2015

Kadomatsu - for Japanese New Year


Kadomatsu (literally "gate pine") is a traditional Japanese decoration of the New Year. There are usually three bamboo shoots tied with straw and some pine around the edges.  The kadomatsu come in pairs and represent male and female entities. The kadomatsu are placed right outside of the house, touching the foundation of your home and at the entrance. 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.
 
After January 15 (or in many instances the 19th) the kadomatsu is burned to appease the kami or toshigami and release them. Wolf-Tek has scripted the kadomatsu I made to burn down in stages.

Copy only in three sizes.

More information about kadomatsu and Japanese New Year traditions:
http://japan-magazine.jnto.go.jp/en/1112_newyear.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kadomatsu

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