Japanese traditions, Kyoto good luck charms Chimaki

Chimaki is a Japanese delicacy, steamed rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves, traditionally enjoyed during the Children's Day celebrations. An elongated rice cake is wrapped in 3 bamboo leaves with long stems, which are tied with a thread of grass, as you can see in today's photos.

However, what is photographed here, although prepared the same way, is not a food but a traditional good luck charm, a talisman related to Kyoto's Gion festival. Hung above the door, these Chimaki are considered to bring good luck, prosperity and long, healthy life...

Scroll down for a more detailed photo.