Across Japan, communities are immersing themselves in the cherished tradition of New Year gate decorations, known as Kadomatsu. With the New Year fast approaching, the creation of these beautiful symbols of good fortune and prosperity is being celebrated throughout the nation.
One standout example is Akagi Green, a gardening company based in Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, which has been crafting Kadomatsu for over 40 years. On December 23, as the final touches were made to approximately 150 gate decorations, the workers diligently prepared materials sourced from the local area, including thick bamboo from nearby forests. According to the company, the last step involves adorning each piece with festive decorations to usher in the New Year.
Not far from Maebashi, the Ichinobo group has taken on the task of restoring the historic Sendai Kadomatsu at several of its resorts, including the Yuzukushi Salon and Matsushima Ichinobo. This revival aims to reconnect visitors with the rich cultural heritage of Sendai. The installations begin decorating the entrances as early as December 26, ensuring guests can absorb the city's traditions as they arrive.
The Sendai Kadomatsu follows a unique style, distinct from typical Kadomatsu. Instead of the standard bamboo structures, it traditionally features two upright logs, symbolizing trees, adorned with pine and bamboo, connected by ornamental decorations known as 'Kendai.' These were celebrated once throughout the Sendai domain but have now nearly vanished. With the continued work of local gardening companies, efforts to rekindle this magnificent tradition are underway.
Meanwhile, at Mizuho Middle School in Shimane Prefecture, all 75 students participated on December 23 to create their traditional Kadomatsu using locally sourced bamboo and pine. This hands-on experience allowed them to immerse themselves directly in Japanese culture and learn the significance of these decorations, fostering both pride and cultural appreciation.
On the other side of the spectrum, students from Iida Agricultural School created mini Kadomatsu as part of their curriculum to preserve local traditions tied to agriculture. On the same day, about 20 second-year students fashioned their creations, integrating local materials and traditional techniques. The students engaged with these decorations' complex cultural history, with one student, Hinata Baba, reflecting, "It was hard at first to work with straw, but it turned out to be fun! I’d love to try more straw crafts next year."
Each year, the community of Sugishima District gathers to make shimenawa and Kadomatsu for local shrines, focusing on wishes for abundant harvests and health. Their efforts on December 22, overseen by the Sugishima Community Network, brought together children and adults alike to weave their decorations. Ten-year-old Jotaro Tanaka remarked on the challenge of crafting the items but expressed satisfaction with his accomplishment.
Community involvement is integral to these traditions, with everyone playing their part. At Harukaen garden company, based in Takaoka City, workers reported creating around 200 Kadomatsu, ranging from 90 centimeters to 2.4 meters tall. The company's representative, Tomohisa Miyawaki, shared, "We make these with every bit of care and hope for swift recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake, infusing our work with positive intentions for the community."
JR Shikoku also contributes to this tradition, erecting approximately three-meter tall Kadomatsu at Matsuyama Station to welcome travelers heading home for the holidays. Created by local high school students, the decorations bring the festive spirit directly to visitors arriving at the station, where they can share the excitement of the season.
The process of designing and crafting these gate decorations brings people together and reinforces community spirit and cultural pride. It effectively reminds everyone about the importance of sharing symbols and hopes for the New Year, not just for oneself but for the whole community. From schools to local companies, each Kadomatsu tells the story of togetherness, tradition, and renewal.
New Year celebrations are pivotal moments for many, and these Kadomatsu stand as not only decorations but as emblems of hope and heritage. The enthusiastic participation of students, artisans, and community members alike augurs well for the future of this enriching tradition.
