While shimekazari has the role of cleansing the place for the gods of the incoming year (Toshigami), a kadomatsu pair, displayed also at the entrance - as in this photo - serves as a temporary accommodation (yorishiro) for the Toshigami.

Kadomatsu are usually made of 3 bamboo pieces symbolizing the heaven, the earth and the humanity, with pine twigs symbolizing long life, all tied together with rope.

Japanese New Year Decoration, Kadomatsu, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Japanese New Year Decoration, Shimekazari