The tradition of
tai-gan-ume is similar to votive tablets (
ema), the only difference being that the messages (or wishes) sent to
kami are written on a paper which is enclosed in a wooden ball the size of an
ume fruit (hence the name).
The
tai-gan-ume is usually tied in a tree (similar to the
ema which is hung on a rack) but it can also be taken home, as a good luck charm.
Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, Teramachi-dori, Kyoto EXIF info:
Nikon Df
Lens: 24-70mm F/2.8G
Focal Length: 70mm
Aperture: F/2.8
Shutter Speed: 1/60s
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 2000