Many Japanese decorate the front door of houses with a”Kadomatsu” during the New Year holidays.
“Kado” means a gate and “Matsu” means a pine.
”Kadomatsu” is made of bamboo and decorated with flowers and ribbons.
It is said that this is the appropriate way to welcome gods.
If you want to know more about Kadomatsu, please click here.
Hi Tomoko,
There’s another New Year’s decoration that people put on their doors, but I can’t remember the name. It looks a bit like a wreath made from straw. What’s it called?
See ya,
Nigel
By: Nigel on December 12, 2007
at 6:53 am
Hi Nigel,
Thank you for your message.
I think it is Shimenawa.
It is also New Year’s decoration.
See ya,
Tomoko
By: jculture on December 18, 2007
at 12:21 pm
Is it possible to use kadomatsu for a centerpiece at my son’s 1st birthday. The party will be on 03/22. It will be place on a table.
By: G on January 8, 2008
at 1:51 am
Thank you for your message.
I think Kadomatsu is a decoration of New Year.
We Japanese use this during only New Year.
However if you want to use it, you can do that.
It is not unlucky, and Kadomatsu is a symbol for welcome to luck.
Have a good time at your son’s birthday party!!
best wishes,
Tomoko
By: jculture on January 9, 2008
at 7:02 am