SHIMEKAZARI
Japanese New Year Decorations made of Hemp

The origin of the shimekazari (New Year’s sacred decorations) traces back to the shimenawa—a sacred rope believed to mark the boundary between this world and the next and to serve as a yorishiro, a vessel through which deities descend.

In Japan, where rice has long been the staple food, rice straw left after harvest was dried and used to craft daily tools, including shimekazari. Yet, no more than three or four generations ago, it was not uncommon for people to struggle through years of poor harvests caused by natural disasters. The auspicious symbols and natural motifs found in shimekazari embody gratitude for surviving another year and prayers for prosperity and peace in the next, expressing the sincerity of life shaped by Japan’s climate and faith.

Directed by Gallery Nichinichi, this exhibition inherits the spiritual essence of shimekazari while introducing a new interpretation that fits contemporary life. Using taima (hemp), a sacred material traditionally employed in Shinto rituals, each work transforms into an artistic object—an expression of beauty that bridges ritual and art.

You will also be captivated by the powerful simplicity of the ‘nau’ (twisting) technique. By twisting several strands together by hand, fragile fibers are transformed into a single, unbreakable rope capable of bearing great weight—an ancient skill that forms the foundation of civilization itself. In Kyoto, the spiritual heart of Japan, the craft of asanai-takumi (hemp rope artisans) has long been preserved. The Yamakawa family, who have produced ritual hemp ropes for generations, continue to pass down this unique expertise into its fifth generation.

All shimekazari featured in this exhibition are custom-made exclusively for Nichinichi, inspired by traditional designs from across Japan and crafted from the finest domestically grown hemp—celebrating its natural luster and elegant twist as embodiments of good fortune.

”CHADAI MUSUBI” W315 × H800 mm

In addition to the popular small-sized pieces such as “BALL,” “SPECTACLES,” and “DOVE,” this year’s collection introduces new designs: decorative kumihimo knots “CHADAI MUSUBI,” created with motifs of ”HORSE”—the zodiac animal of the coming year. The lineup also includes the compact and versatile “SMALL SHIMEKAZARI,” perfect for gifting, as well as striking, statement pieces like “RICE BALE” and “RAIN AND THUNDERBOLT” making up a total of fifteen varieties.

”BALL” W 105 ×H 370 mm

“SPECTACLE (L) ”  W 220 × H 340 mm

The word ‘綯う-nau’ shares its root with ‘和う-nagou’ (to harmonize), meaning to bind multiple things together as one. With these works, Gallery Nichinichi extends heartfelt wishes for a bright, auspicious, and healthy New Year to all.

Origin of the Shimekazari ＞View here
Past exhibitions ＞View here