Shimekazari Kitakami

 I got to know Kitakami by walking around. It's how I found Suwajinja. It's how I mapped my jogging routes. And even now, almost two years later, I still find beautiful and fascinating new things. Now, it's shimekazari!

 Different elements mean different things. Mostly, they are symbols of prosperity and good luck.

Tai, for example, are giant carp and symbolize good fortune.

 Shimekazari are all beautiful and unique. Some people make them for themselves, while most people buy them from retailers. Even at the Daiso you can get a small but functional shimekazari. But no matter what you pay, or even how you display them, they hold their own...

 ...even if it's just a spray of pine needles.

 Businesses close for about five days at the start of the year so that family members can celebrate and be with their loved ones.

 Kadomatsu, big and small, are also a major part of welcoming the new year. Bamboo and pine branches are the most common elements because to the Japanese, these "ever-greens" symbolize eternal life.