Discover the Best Japanese New Year Decorations to Bring Good Luck and Prosperity in 2021

Are you ready to ring in the New Year? In Japan, the celebration is not complete without the beautiful and unique decorations that adorn homes and businesses alike. From kadomatsu to shimekazari, each ornament has a special meaning and purpose. So, let's explore the fascinating world of Japanese New Year decorations!

First up, we have kadomatsu, which literally means gate pine. These decorations are placed outside homes and businesses to welcome in the spirits of ancestral gods. Made from bamboo and pine branches, kadomatsu represents the harmony between nature and humans. It's said that the longer the kadomatsu stays up, the more good luck it brings. So, don't be surprised if you see these decorations around well into January!

Next, we have shimekazari, which is a traditional decoration hung on doors to ward off evil spirits. Shimekazari is made from rice straw and adorned with oranges, ferns, and other auspicious plants. One interesting custom is to hang shimekazari on the door of a newly built house for three years, after which it's replaced with a new one. This practice is believed to bring longevity and prosperity to the home.

Another popular decoration is kagami mochi, which translates to mirror rice cake. Kagami mochi is made by stacking two rice cakes on top of each other, with a small citrus fruit called a daidai placed on top. The round shape of kagami mochi represents the full moon and is believed to bring good luck and fortune. It's customary to offer kagami mochi to the gods at shrines and temples during the New Year.

Speaking of food, no Japanese New Year celebration is complete without osechi ryori, a special feast consisting of various dishes that symbolize good luck and prosperity. Osechi ryori is typically prepared in advance and stored in stacked boxes called jubako. Each dish has a special meaning, such as black beans for health and herring roe for fertility.

But let's not forget about the most famous New Year decoration of them all: the daruma doll. Daruma dolls are small, round figurines with blank eyes that represent perseverance and good luck. The custom is to make a wish and fill in one eye of the daruma doll. Once the wish comes true, the other eye is filled in. Daruma dolls are often displayed in homes and businesses as a reminder to stay focused on one's goals.

While we're on the topic of dolls, let's talk about hagoita, a decorative paddle used in a traditional game called hanetsuki. Hagoita is made from wood and decorated with colorful images of kabuki actors, geishas, and other famous figures. In the past, hagoita was used by women to exercise their arms and improve their posture. Today, it's a popular decoration that brings a touch of nostalgia to the New Year celebration.

Another fascinating decoration is hamaya, or demon-breaking arrow. Hamaya is a bamboo arrow adorned with various symbols of good luck, such as cranes and turtles. It's believed that hamaya can ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity to the home. Hamaya is often displayed alongside hina dolls, which are a set of ornamental dolls that represent the emperor, empress, and their court.

Now, let's talk about kagamibiraki, a traditional New Year custom that involves breaking open a cask of sake using a wooden mallet. Kagamibiraki literally means opening the mirror, and it symbolizes the breaking of bad habits and the start of a fresh new year. The sake is then shared among family and friends as a sign of unity and harmony.

Finally, we have fukubukuro, which translates to lucky bag. Fukubukuro is a mystery bag filled with various items that are sold at a discounted price during the New Year. The contents of the bag are a surprise, but it's said that they bring good luck and prosperity to the buyer. Fukubukuro is a popular tradition in Japan, with people lining up for hours to get their hands on these lucky bags.

In conclusion, Japanese New Year decorations are not only beautiful but also steeped in tradition and meaning. Each ornament represents a different aspect of the New Year celebration, from welcoming ancestral gods to warding off evil spirits. So, next time you see a kadomatsu or a daruma doll, remember the rich cultural significance behind these festive decorations!

The Crazy World of Japanese New Year Decorations

As we approach the end of the year, most people start thinking about Christmas decorations. But in Japan, it's all about New Year decorations. And let me tell you, they take it to a whole new level!

Kadomatsu: The Gateway to Your Home

The first thing you'll notice when walking around Japan during New Year's is the abundance of kadomatsu. These are decorations made from bamboo and pine branches that are placed at the entrance of homes and businesses to welcome good luck and prosperity.

But here's the catch: you can't just buy any kadomatsu. Depending on where you live, there are specific rules about the height and shape of the bamboo and pine branches. It's like a game of Kadomatsu Tetris trying to get them to fit just right!

Shimekazari: The Good Luck Charm

Once you've made it past the kadomatsu and into the home or business, you'll likely see a shimekazari hanging from the doorway. This decoration is made from twisted straw and shimenawa (sacred rope) and is thought to ward off evil spirits.

The shimekazari also serves as a good luck charm for the coming year. It's often adorned with various decorations like oranges (for good health), ferns (for growth), and even small dolls (to represent family members).

Osechi Ryori: The Fancy Food

No New Year's celebration in Japan is complete without osechi ryori. This is a special meal made up of various traditional dishes that are carefully prepared and presented in elegant lacquer boxes.

The dishes are meant to represent good luck and fortune for the coming year. For example, kuromame (sweet black beans) symbolize diligence and health, while kamaboko (fish cake) represents the rising sun.

Kagami Mochi: The Mochi Mountain

Another common New Year's decoration is kagami mochi. This is a stack of two or three mochi (sticky rice cakes) that are placed on a special stand and adorned with a bitter orange (daidai).

The mochi represents the continuity of family and the daidai is said to bring good luck. But here's the thing: kagami mochi is rock hard! It's meant to be an offering to the gods, not a snack for humans. So don't try to take a bite!

Shishimai: The Lion Dance

One of the most exciting New Year's traditions in Japan is shishimai, the lion dance. This is a performance where dancers dress up as lions and perform a lively dance accompanied by taiko drums and other instruments.

The lion is thought to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. So if you see a shishimai performance during your New Year's travels, make sure to join in the fun!

Toshikoshi Soba: The Long Noodles

On New Year's Eve, it's customary to eat toshikoshi soba, or year-crossing noodles. These are long thin noodles that are meant to symbolize longevity and a long life.

The tradition goes that you should finish eating the soba before midnight in order to cross over into the new year with a clean slate. But be careful not to slurp too loudly or you'll bring bad luck!

Fukubukuro: The Lucky Bag

Finally, we have fukubukuro, the lucky bag. This is a New Year's tradition where shops and businesses sell mystery bags filled with random items at a discounted price.

The idea is that you'll get more value than what you paid for and hopefully some good luck as well. But be warned: it's a bit of a gamble. You might end up with a great deal or a bag full of useless junk!

Conclusion

And there you have it: the crazy world of Japanese New Year decorations. From kadomatsu to fukubukuro, there are plenty of traditions to keep you busy during the holiday season.

So if you're ever in Japan during New Year's, make sure to take part in the festivities. Who knows, you might just get some good luck for the coming year!

Deck the halls with… oranges? Yes, you read that right! One of the unusual New Year traditions in Japan is to hang mandarin oranges around the house. These little fruits signify wealth and good fortune, making them a perfect addition to the festive decorations. No pine trees left behind! Kadomatsu is a traditional Japanese decoration made from bamboo and pine branches. These beautiful arrangements are placed outside homes and businesses to welcome the New Year and bring good luck. Plus, they add a touch of natural elegance to any space. Too cute to handle! Daruma dolls are not only adorable, but they also bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year. These round, red dolls are often given as gifts and are believed to help people achieve their goals and wishes. Just be careful not to get too distracted by their cuteness! Grandpa, is that you? Toshidama is a festive New Year’s ornament that looks like...well, let’s just say it’s an acquired taste. These ornate balls are often decorated with images of old men, symbolizing longevity and wisdom. They may not be the prettiest decorations, but they certainly have character! Ringing in the New Year! Joya no kane is a tradition where giant temple bells are rung exactly 108 times to symbolize the 108 worldly desires. This practice is said to cleanse the mind and soul, preparing people for the fresh start of the New Year. It’s a beautiful and meaningful way to welcome in the new year. Origami overload! Japan wouldn’t be complete without some paper folding magic. Shide decorations are made from colorful folded paper strips and are often used to decorate shrines and temples during the New Year festivities. They’re a fun and easy way to add some DIY flair to your own New Year’s decor. Cat-tastic celebrations! If you’re a fan of maneki-neko, the Japanese lucky cat, then you’ll love how these cute felines are incorporated into New Year’s decor. From small figurines to giant statues, these cats are believed to bring good fortune and success in business. They’re also just really adorable. Top knots and tangerines! Kumquat trees are considered a symbol of good luck, making them a popular decoration during the New Year season. They’re often decorated with red ribbons and hachimaki headbands, creating a festive and cheerful atmosphere. Plus, who doesn’t love a good citrusy scent? Cranes and blessings! Paper cranes are a beloved icon of Japan, and during New Year’s, they take on a special meaning. They’re folded as a wish for health and prosperity in the coming year. These delicate and intricate decorations are not only beautiful but also give a sense of hope for the future. Less is more. Finally, let’s appreciate the simplicity of shimekazari, the minimalist New Year’s decoration made from straw rope and white paper strips. Sometimes, the most beautiful things are the most understated ones. These elegant decorations bring a sense of calm and tranquility to any space, making them the perfect addition to any New Year’s celebration.

Japanese New Year Decorations: A Humorous Take

The Tradition of Japanese New Year Decorations

For the Japanese, New Year's Day is the most important holiday of the year. It's a time of renewal and fresh starts, where people clean their homes, prepare special foods, and decorate with a variety of traditional ornaments called kadomatsu and shimenawa.

Kadomatsu are made from bamboo and pine branches, and are placed outside homes and businesses to welcome the gods of the harvest and prosperity. Shimenawa are special ropes made from rice straw, and are hung over doors to ward off evil spirits.

My Point of View on Japanese New Year Decorations

As an outsider looking in, I have to say that some of these New Year decorations seem a little... odd. I mean, who thought it was a good idea to hang a rope made of straw over your door to keep out bad luck? And don't even get me started on the whole welcoming the gods of the harvest thing. I'm pretty sure the gods aren't going to show up just because you have some bamboo and pine branches outside your house.

But hey, who am I to judge? Every culture has its own traditions and beliefs, and if the Japanese want to decorate their homes with kadomatsu and shimenawa, more power to them. After all, it's not like we Americans don't have our own weird holiday customs. I mean, have you ever seen a Christmas tree? It's basically a dead plant that we drag inside our homes and cover in lights and shiny objects.

Table of Keywords

Japanese New Year
Decorations
Kadomatsu
Shimenawa
Bamboo
Pine branches
Harvest
Prosperity
Evil spirits
Rice straw
Traditions
Beliefs
Americans
Christmas tree
Lights
Shiny objects

In conclusion, while some of the Japanese New Year decorations may seem strange to outsiders, they are an important part of the country's culture and traditions. And who knows, maybe one day we'll all be hanging ropes made of rice straw over our doors to keep out evil spirits.

Cheers to a Festive New Year with Japanese Decorations!

Now that you have discovered the beauty of Japanese New Year decorations, it's time to put them into action! As the year comes to a close, it's essential to welcome the new year with open arms and a festive spirit. So, why not take some inspiration from the Japanese and decorate your home in style?

Firstly, let's talk about the iconic Kadomatsu. This unique decoration is perfect for welcoming good luck and prosperity into your home. It consists of three bamboo shoots, each of different lengths, and decorated with pine and plum branches. Placing Kadomatsu at your doorstep or on your porch signifies the start of a new year and brings good fortune to your household.

If you're looking for something a little more playful, why not try Daruma dolls? These adorable little figurines are often used as good luck charms to help achieve goals and wishes. The best part? If you draw in one eye and make a wish, you must keep the doll until your wish comes true. So, not only do they make great decorations, but they also offer a little motivation to kickstart your year!

Now, let's move onto Shimekazari. These beautiful hanging ornaments are made up of various materials, including rice straw ropes, ferns, and citrus fruits. They are hung on doors and walls to ward off evil spirits and bring happiness and good fortune into the home. With their intricate designs and vibrant colors, Shimekazari adds a touch of elegance and charm to any room.

If you're a fan of origami, then you'll love the traditional art of Kirigami. This paper-cutting technique is used to create stunning decorations such as snowflakes, cranes, and lanterns. The intricate designs and delicate details are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of sophistication to your home.

Another popular decoration is the Kagami Mochi. This sweet treat is made up of two round rice cakes stacked on top of each other and decorated with a tangerine or pine needles. It symbolizes harmony, longevity, and good fortune. It's also a popular snack during the New Year celebrations and is offered to the gods as a sign of gratitude.

If you're feeling crafty, why not try making your own Fukubukuro? These lucky bags are filled with various items such as sweets, toys, and trinkets. They are given as gifts during the New Year celebrations and are said to bring good luck and prosperity to the recipient. So, fill your bag with some goodies and surprise your loved ones with a little bit of luck!

Finally, let's talk about the importance of cleanliness during the New Year celebrations. It's customary to clean your home thoroughly before the start of the New Year to get rid of any negative energy and make way for good fortune. So, grab your cleaning supplies and get to work! Remember, a clean home equals a fresh start.

So, there you have it! A few ideas to get you started on your Japanese New Year decoration journey. Whether you opt for the traditional Kadomatsu or the playful Daruma dolls, remember to embrace the festive spirit and welcome the new year with open arms. Here's to a prosperous and joyous new year!

Thank you for joining me on this journey of discovering Japanese New Year Decorations. I hope you found this article informative and inspiring. May your year be filled with good fortune, happiness, and lots of beautiful decorations!

Japanese New Year Decorations: People Also Ask

What are the traditional Japanese New Year decorations?

The traditional Japanese New Year decorations are called kadomatsu and shimenawa. Kadomatsu is a pair of decorative bamboo and pine arrangements that are placed outside the entrance of homes or buildings to welcome the gods. Shimenawa, on the other hand, is a rope made of rice straw that is hung above the entrance of homes or shrines to ward off evil spirits.

What do the decorations symbolize?

Kadomatsu symbolizes the unity of heaven, earth, and humanity, while shimenawa represents purity and sacredness. These decorations are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to households and businesses throughout the year.

Are there any other popular Japanese New Year decorations?

Yes, there are other popular Japanese New Year decorations such as:

Kagami Mochi: A traditional Japanese New Year decoration made of two round mochi (rice cakes) stacked on top of each other and topped with a citrus fruit called daidai.
Hamaya: Decorative arrows that are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Maneki Neko: The famous Japanese lucky cat that is often displayed in stores and restaurants to attract customers and bring good fortune.

Do people decorate their homes for Japanese New Year?

Yes, decorating homes for Japanese New Year is a common tradition in Japan. Many families put up kadomatsu and shimenawa at their entrances, as well as kagami mochi and other decorations inside their homes to welcome the new year.

Can I buy Japanese New Year decorations outside of Japan?

Yes, you can buy Japanese New Year decorations online or at Japanese specialty stores outside of Japan. However, it's important to note that some decorations may be difficult to find and may come at a higher price due to shipping costs.

In Conclusion

Japanese New Year is a time of celebration and renewal, and decorating homes and businesses is an important part of this tradition. Whether you're in Japan or abroad, incorporating traditional Japanese New Year decorations into your festivities can bring good luck and joy to the new year. Plus, they make great conversation starters for guests who are unfamiliar with Japanese culture!