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Tokyo Winter Craft Traditions: Kumade Rakes & Edo Treasures

Yamato Takeru at the Tori-no-Ichi festival, holding a kumade in vivid ukiyo-e style.

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In Tokyo, the arrival of winter heralds a vibrant celebration of craft traditions, with the Tori-no-Ichi festival and its iconic kumade rakes taking center stage. These events, deeply rooted in local culture, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and artistry.

at Ohtori Shrine, Asakusa, Tokyo
“Tori no Ichi Fair (10646033573)” by Yoshikazu TAKADA from Tokyo, Japan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Introduction to Tokyo’s Winter Craft Traditions

Tokyo, a city known for its blend of modernity and tradition, comes alive with unique winter craft traditions. The Tori-no-Ichi festival, held at Otori Shrine in Asakusa and other locations, is a significant cultural event where kumade rakes, believed to bring good fortune, are prominently featured. Alongside this, the city’s history of Edo Kiriko glass cutting and Tokyo Some-Komon textiles adds to the allure of Tokyo’s winter crafts.

Yamato Takeru at the Tori-no-Ichi festival, holding a kumade in vivid ukiyo-e style.
AI生成イメージ / AI-generated illustration (not a photograph of the actual place)

The Vibrant Tori-no-Ichi Fair: Raking in Wealth and Good Fortune

FACT: What the Tori-no-Ichi Festival Involves

The Tori-no-Ichi, or Rooster Market, is a traditional fair held annually on the Days of the Rooster in November. It is primarily celebrated at Otori Shrine in Asakusa, Tokyo, and is renowned for its kumade rakes. These decorative bamboo rakes are adorned with symbols of prosperity and are sold to bring good luck and success in business for the coming year. The festival is a lively affair, with vendors enthusiastically clapping their hands in rhythmic patterns to attract customers, a custom known as tejime.

FACT: The Atmosphere of Tori-no-Ichi

The atmosphere at Tori-no-Ichi is electric, with the air filled with the sounds of tejime and the vibrant calls of vendors. Stalls line the paths leading to the shrine, each displaying a dazzling array of kumade in various sizes and designs. Visitors can experience the traditional Japanese marketplace, where the act of purchasing is as much about the ritual as it is about the product itself. The rhythmic hand-clapping of tejime is not just a sales tactic; it is a ceremonial gesture that signifies the closing of a deal and the sharing of good fortune between the seller and buyer.

LEGEND: The Origins of Tori-no-Ichi

According to local tradition, the origins of Tori-no-Ichi are linked to two main narratives. One account attributes the festival’s beginnings to Hanahata Otori Shrine, while another ties it to the legendary hero Yamato Takeru at Asakusa Otori Shrine. These stories coexist, reflecting the rich tapestry of beliefs that surround this event. The festival is not only a marketplace but also a cultural experience where the past and present converge.

The Legend and History of Asakusa’s Otori Shrine

FACT: Historical Significance of Otori Shrine

Otori Shrine in Asakusa holds a special place in Tokyo’s cultural landscape. It is one of the primary venues for the Tori-no-Ichi festival and is steeped in history. The shrine is dedicated to the deity of good fortune and prosperity, making it a fitting location for a festival centered on luck and success. Visitors to the shrine during the festival can witness traditional ceremonies and participate in the vibrant atmosphere. The shrine itself is a testament to the enduring spiritual practices of the area, offering a serene backdrop to the bustling festivities.

LEGEND: Yamato Takeru’s Connection

Legend has it that Yamato Takeru, a mythical prince and warrior, once visited the site of Otori Shrine. This connection adds a layer of mystique to the shrine and the festival. The story of Yamato Takeru is a cherished part of Japanese folklore, and his association with the shrine enhances its cultural significance, drawing visitors who are eager to connect with this legendary past. The tale of Yamato Takeru is often recounted during the festival, adding depth to the experience and connecting modern participants with the ancient stories of Japan.

Bargaining and Rhythmic Hand-Clapping: The Custom of Buying Kumade

FACT: The Art of Kumade

Kumade, or ‘rake hands,’ are crafted from bamboo and decorated with auspicious symbols such as cranes, turtles, and masks of the Seven Lucky Gods. These rakes are believed to ‘rake in’ good fortune and are a must-have for businesses and households alike. The process of purchasing a kumade is an interactive experience, where bargaining is accompanied by the rhythmic hand-clapping of tejime, creating a lively and engaging marketplace atmosphere.

FACT: The Symbolism Behind Kumade

The symbolism behind kumade is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Each element of the rake carries a specific meaning, intended to attract prosperity and ward off misfortune. The crane and turtle, for example, are traditional symbols of longevity and good luck. The inclusion of masks representing the Seven Lucky Gods further amplifies the auspicious nature of these talismans. Purchasing a kumade is not just a transaction; it is a ritual steeped in hope and tradition, reflecting a desire for success and happiness in the coming year.

Returning and Renewing Talismans in Otakiage Rites

FACT: The Ritual of Otakiage

At the end of the year, the Otakiage ritual is performed to return and renew talismans, including kumade, at shrines. This ceremony involves burning the previous year’s talismans in a sacred fire, symbolizing purification and renewal. It is a time for reflection and preparation for the new year, ensuring that good fortune continues to bless those who participate. The ritual underscores the cyclical nature of life and the importance of renewal, both spiritually and materially.

Edo Kiriko and Tokyo Some-Komon: Timeless Gift-Worthy Crafts

FACT: The Elegance of Edo Kiriko

Edo Kiriko is a traditional glass cutting technique that originated in the Edo period. These intricately cut glass pieces are known for their precision and beauty, making them popular gifts and souvenirs. The craft has been preserved and continues to be a symbol of Tokyo’s rich artistic heritage. Visitors can find Edo Kiriko items in specialty shops throughout Tokyo, offering a tangible connection to the city’s historical craftsmanship.

FACT: The Tradition of Tokyo Some-Komon

Tokyo Some-Komon is a textile craft characterized by its fine patterns and delicate dyeing techniques. This traditional craft has been passed down through generations, and its intricate designs are highly valued for their elegance and sophistication. Tokyo Some-Komon textiles are often used in kimono making and are treasured for their cultural and aesthetic significance. The meticulous process of creating these textiles is a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who keep this tradition alive.

Nearby Guide

Access

  • Iriya Station (Tokyo) — Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Iriya Station (Exit 3), then walk approximately 7 minutes to Otori Shrine. details
  • Minowa Station (Tokyo) — Alternatively, use Minowa Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, about a 10-minute walk to the shrine. details

Nearby sights

  • Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo) — A historic Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, approximately a 20-minute walk from Otori Shrine. official site
  • Tokyo Skytree (Tokyo) — The tallest structure in Japan, offering panoramic views of the city, about 3 km from Otori Shrine. official site

Where to stay

  • Asakusa View Hotel (Tokyo) — A hotel offering comfortable accommodations near Asakusa, approximately a 20-minute walk from Otori Shrine. official site

Where to eat

  • Kibiya (Tokyo) — A restaurant known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, located near Otori Shrine. details
Locator map of Japan: Tokyo, Tokyo
Legend site: Tokyo, Tokyo — Source: Map of Japan with highlight on 13 Tokyo prefecture.svg; Map: Lincun, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Related on JAPAN ESSENCE: Experiencing Hokkaido’s Winter New Year Rituals in Sapporo | Winter in Yanbaru: Discovering Okinawa’s Subtropical Forest and Biodiversity

Sources

To explore further, visit Onigawara Experience for hands-on onigawara experiences in Japan and Oni Kobo (鬼工房) for onigawara demon-tile art and charms.

About the author

JAPAN ESSENCE Editorial Team
Our mission is to bring you Japan’s legends, myths, festivals and living traditions, through both historical fact and the stories passed down over generations.

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