Kadomatsu

Decorations made of pine, bamboo and plum trees are appearing across the city outside homes and businesses. Called kadomatsu, they are put on display from right after Christmas until January 7 and are believed to provide temporary housing for the toshigami sama (deity) in order to ensure a great harvest and blessings from the family's ancestors on everyone in the home. Pine, bamboo and plum trees each symbolize longevity, prosperity and sturdiness.