Chimaki

　During the Gion Festival, the one thing the people of Kyoto never fail to buy every year is chimaki. These are displayed at the entrance to ward off misfortune, though the blessings they offer vary depending on the specific yamahoko float.

　When I first visited Kyoto, I mistakenly thought they were sweet chimaki confectionery meant to be eaten, and my Kyoto friend was quite taken aback when I tried to take the contents out.

　The main material used for chimaki is a large sasa (bamboo grass) known as ‘chimakizasa’, sourced from Kurama, Ohara and the Tanba Highlands. However, in recent years, the population has been declining due to damage caused by deer, amongst other factors.

　The chimaki I purchased this year is from the Tsuki-hoko float, which is crowned with a crescent moon at its head. It will protect our guesthouse from misfortune for the coming year.