Experiences – Life – Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵

A few posts back, I explained the Shinto tradition of dondoyaki, where Japanese people burn their shimekazari at a shrine. This morning, my wife Hiromi and I participated in this ritual for the first time, and it was a fascinating experience for both of us!

Hiromi pointed out that the broader term for Dondoyaki (どんど焼き) is Sagicho (左義長). Both represent a cherished Japanese tradition where people burn New Year decorations, such as shimenawa (sacred ropes), kadomatsu, and sometimes old daruma dolls, in a grand bonfire. This act symbolizes sending wishes to the gods and purifying these objects, which is believed to usher in good fortune for the coming year.

The specific name for this event can vary by region. In western Japan, it’s known as Tondo (とんど), while in some areas, it’s referred to as Sai no Kami (さいの神). Regardless of the name, this practice is deeply rooted in Shinto and folk traditions.

Amidst the communal warmth of the fire on a chilly day, I felt a sense of joy and connection while burning the shimekazari. There’s something profoundly elemental about gathering around a fire with others in winter—a beautiful reminder of our shared humanity.

#Dondoyaki #Sagicho #JapaneseTraditions #Shinto #CulturalExperience #GoodFortune #Community #WinterRituals #LifeInJapan