Bonfire

Just like Americans put up and decorate a Christmas Tree, Japanese families hang a special New Year's wreath outside of their front door. The wreaths are made of bamboo, ribbon, and other materials. On the second Saturday after the beginning of the New Year, a bonfire is held where everyone brings their wreaths to burn. Large bamboo trees are used to prop up the structure and facilitate the flames. Our original plan did not include being her for one of these, but one of the many good things to Amane's illness delaying our return was enjoying a bonfire.

Minoru was on the crew that helped put the whole foundation together. This field is someone's rice field a few blocks away, and you can see the red fire truck in the back just in case.

I don't know if Hiro quite knew what was going on besides a big fire and some good food. One note on the bonfire. Once the flames get going, the bamboo trees cause these loud pops that are startling if you're not expecting or used to them.

A large area for eating was set out, and we could not wear our shoes on these mats. Sake was served in bamboo cups, and food was shared and by all. As the bonfire grew, small bits of ash and other material floated here and there--unfortunately, part of Chieko's shoes were melted when some flaming bits evidently landed on them.