Understanding Shimekazari and Japanese New Year Decorations
Shimekazari (しめ縄飾り) is a sacred rope decoration made of rice straw that has been an integral part of Japanese New Year traditions for centuries. These decorations serve as temporary dwelling places for deities during the New Year period and are traditionally hung above doorways and gates to purify the space and welcome these divine visitors.
When to Remove New Year Decorations
Traditional Timing Options
- After Matsu-no-uchi (松の内) – January 7th
- Most common timing across Japan
- Marks the end of the primary New Year’s celebration period
- Particularly common in the Kanto region (including Tokyo)
- Around Ko-shōgatsu (小正月) – January 15th
- Popular in the Kansai region
- Often coincides with traditional fire festivals
- Known as Dondoyaki (どんど焼き) or Sagichō (左義長)
- Around Coming of Age Day (成人の日)
- A modern adaptation
- Usually falls on the second Monday of January
- Many families take advantage of the long weekend
Regional Variations
Different regions of Japan follow varying customs:
- Kanto Region (Eastern Japan): Generally removes decorations on January 7th
- Kansai Region (Western Japan): Tends to keep decorations until January 15th
- Tohoku Region (Northern Japan): Some areas consider directional fortune (恵方) when choosing the removal date
Handling Other New Year Decorations
Kagami Mochi (Mirror Rice Cakes)
Kagami mochi (鏡餅), the stacked rice cake decoration, typically follows the same removal schedule as Shimekazari. However:
- Should be removed earlier if mold appears
- Many modern households use plastic versions that don’t require special timing
- The breaking ceremony (kagami biraki) is often performed on January 11th
Hamaya and Zodiac Decorations
Hamaya (破魔矢, sacred arrows) and zodiac animal decorations:
- Can be displayed throughout the year
- Often replaced during the next New Year’s period
- Should be treated with respect as religious items
Proper Disposal Methods
Disposal at Shrines
- Take decorations to a local shrine’s collection box (神札納所)
- Participate in community Dondoyaki festivals
- Attend shrine burning ceremonies (焚き上げ祭)
Note: Many shrines offer special services for disposing of religious items during this period.
Home Disposal
If shrine disposal isn’t possible:
- Carefully disassemble the Shimekazari
- Express gratitude before disposal
- Dispose of as burnable waste with respect
Cultural Significance and Modern Practice
The removal of New Year decorations represents:
- The formal conclusion of the New Year celebration period
- A gesture of gratitude to visiting deities
- The transition back to ordinary time
Modern Japanese households often balance traditional customs with practical considerations, but most still observe basic respectful practices when handling these items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I remove decorations before January 7th? A: Unless absolutely necessary, it’s recommended to keep decorations until at least January 7th to observe traditional customs.
Q: Do all shrines accept old decorations? A: Most shrines do, but it’s advisable to check in advance, especially in urban areas.
Q: Is it acceptable to dispose of decorations as regular waste? A: While traditional disposal through shrine burning is preferred, respectful disposal as burnable waste is acceptable when other options aren’t available.
Q: How should foreign residents in Japan handle these decorations? A: Foreign residents are encouraged to follow local customs and timing, but the most important aspect is handling the items with respect.
Summary
While the traditional removal date for Shimekazari and other New Year decorations is January 7th or 15th, modern Japanese society allows for some flexibility in timing. The key elements are showing proper respect for these sacred items and following local community customs when possible. Whether disposing of decorations at a shrine or at home, maintaining a mindful and grateful attitude honors both tradition and cultural significance.