Japanese Customs and Traditions
2010, the Year of the Tiger
Today, at the Tsutenkaku Tower in Osaka, took place the 54th ceremony of the zodiac sign replacement. The animals representing the old year (the Year of the Ox) and the new year (the Year of the Tiger), a calf and a tiger cub participated at this funny ceremony symbolizing the responsibility passing from the Ox to the Tiger.
I enjoyed a lot this video…
As you can see, the cute Bengal tiger cub representing the new year is quite unpredictable. Well, apparently this is one of the traits associated with the year of the Tiger… ![]()
According to the Chinese zodiac, the 2010 will be the year of the Metal Tiger. The Tiger symbolizes bravery, competitiveness and unpredictability. Also, it represents the family values and values the friendship, the friendly support and care.
Also, traditionally, the year of the Tiger is associated with several countries: Romania, Russia, Spain, Turkey, El Salvador and North Korea.
During this period of the year, tiger figurines are manufactured in many places in Japan.
A popular artist from Kofu draw my attention several days ago, with his tiger shaped clay bell. ![]()




