Kumade (熊手) literally means “rake” in Japanese. It is a traditional good-luck charm sold at the Tori-no-Ichi Festival (酉の市), which takes place every November at various shrines and temples in Japan, especially those dedicated to the god of good fortune and prosperous business. Originally, the rake was a simple farming tool used to gather fallen leaves. Over time, it came to symbolize “raking in” good fortune, success, and wealth. Today, decorative kumade are elaborately adorned with symbols of prosperity—such as gold coins, cranes, turtles, and masks of deities like Ebisu and Daikokuten. People who run businesses often buy a new kumade each year, choosing one slightly larger than the previous year’s as a sign of continuous growth and increasing luck. After purchasing it, they perform a lively hand-clapping ritual called “tejime” together with the sellers, wishing for good fortune in the coming year. In short, the kumade at the Tori-no-Ichi Festival is not just a decoration—it represents the Japanese spirit of wishing for prosperity, happiness, and success.
Share
Keep reading
