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If you happen to be in Japan during the winter season, you’re bound to come across Kagamimochi (Jing Bing), the most popular New Year’s decoration. This traditional decoration can be found in any shop or supermarket and comes in various styles and sizes. Here are some interesting facts about Kagamimochi to give you a better understanding of this popular Japanese decoration:

Kagamimochi translates to mirror rice cake as it symbolizes the reflection of the past year and the upcoming year.

The decoration is made up of two round mochis (rice paste) stacked on top of each other, and an orange on top.

The two mochis represent the present year and the upcoming year, and the orange represents prosperity and good health.

Additionally, a Japanese bitter orange, called dai (Cheng), is sometimes included in the decoration to represent longevity.

Kagamimochi is usually placed in a prominent location in the home, such as near the entrance, and is believed to bring good luck and fortune to the household.

Next time you are in Japan during the winter season, keep your eyes peeled for this traditional decoration to experience the rich cultural significance it holds.

Kagamimochi: The New Year’s decoration staple in Japan

As the New Year approaches in Japan, homes and businesses begin to adorn themselves with various decorations to welcome the upcoming year. Among all the decorations, Kagamimochi holds a special place in Japanese culture as it is considered to be a New Year’s decoration staple. Kagamimochi is a traditional Japanese decoration made of two round mochis (rice paste) stacked over each other and topped with a Japanese bitter orange called dai and an orange. One can find Kagamimochi in different sizes and decorations in any shop or supermarket during the New Year season in Japan. The popularity of Kagamimochi has made it an important and integral part of the New Year’s celebrations in Japan.

Understanding the significance of Kagamimochi in Japanese culture

Kagamimochi is not just a popular decoration in Japan, but it holds significant cultural and religious importance. Kagamimochi represents the spirits of Kami, the deities of Shintoism, and is seen as a symbol of prosperity and longevity. The two mochis that are stacked on top of each other symbolize the year’s passing, and the orange is the representation of the sun, which brings light and hope to the coming year. Kagamimochi is believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and happiness to the household and is also offered to the gods and ancestors as a sign of gratitude and respect. Kagamimochi is an essential part of Japanese culture and adds to the festive and traditional vibes during New Year celebrations.

How to make Kagamimochi at home

Making Kagamimochi at home is not only a great DIY project but also an opportunity to indulge in Japanese culture. Here is a simple recipe to create Kagamimochi at home. Ingredients:

• 2 cups of Mochiko flour (sweet rice flour)
• 1.5 cups of water
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• Dai and oranges to decorate

Instructions:

1. Mix mochiko flour, sugar, and water in a bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Place the mixture in a microwave-safe bowl and steam for 10 minutes or until the dough is cooked through.
3. Divide the dough in half and shape them into round discs and let them dry overnight.
4. When the mochis are dry, stack them on top of each other and decorate them with dai and oranges, or any other decorations as per your preference.

Innovative ways to incorporate Kagamimochi in your decor

Kagamimochi can be used in various innovative ways to decorate your home during the New Year season. Here are a few ways to incorporate Kagamimochi into your home decor.

1. Use Kagamimochi as a centerpiece on your dining table.
2. Hang Kagamimochi in your living room as a decoration.
3. Create an attractive Kagamimochi wreath with some evergreen leaves and flowers and hang it on your front door.
4. Wrap Kagamimochi in a beautiful cloth and use them as pillow covers during the New Year season.
5. Place the Kagamimochi on a wooden tray and add some natural elements like pinecones, berries, or leaves to create a beautiful centerpiece.

The different styles and sizes of Kagamimochi available in the market

Kagamimochi is available in various styles and sizes, ranging from basic to intricate and ornamental designs. The size and style of Kagamimochi vary based on the region and sometimes even the household. Some of the popular styles of Kagamimochi are:

• The basic round shape with oranges on the top
• A square or hexagonal Kagamimochi with a tangerine or Japanese apricot on the top
• Ornamental designs with small mochis hanging from a string, decorated with pine, bamboo, and plum, representing the three friends of winter.

Other popular Japanese decorations for New Year’s celebrations

Apart from Kagamimochi, there are other popular Japanese decorations that are used to decorate homes and businesses during the New Year season. Some of them are:

• Shimekazari: A Shinto shrineshaped decoration believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the household.
• Kadomatsu: A decoration made of bamboo and pine branches, symbolizing prosperity and longevity.
• Fukubukuro: A Japanese New Year tradition of giving a lucky bag filled with surprises and gifts.

In conclusion, Kagamimochi is not just a decoration, but it represents the rich cultural heritage of Japan. It is an integral part of the New Year’s celebrations and brings hope, positivity, and blessings to the household. Whether you buy it from the market or make it at home, Kagamimochi is a must-have decoration to add to your home decor during the New Year season.