Okera Mairi (おけら参り) is a deep-rooted Japanese tradition that takes place on the last day of the year at Yasaka-jinja Shrine (八坂神社). Located in Kyoto, this ancestral custom is imbued with spirituality and rituals. It provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the transition from one year to the next and honors Shinto deities.
The Yasaka-jinja Shrine: Guardian of Tradition
Yasaka-jinja Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is a major place of worship in Japan. It is renowned for its history and cultural significance. On December 31, thousands of devotees and visitors gather to participate in the Okera Mairi. It’s a practice that dates back centuries.
Meaning of Okera Mairi
The term “Okera” refers to twigs of straw grass. While “Mairi” means visiting a shrine to pray. Thus, Okera Mairi can be literally translated as “the visit with twigs of straw grass”. Twigs of straw grass play a central role in this custom. They symbolize spiritual cleansing and purification.
Okera Mairi progress
The festivities usually begin in the early evening, when participants head to the Yasaka-jinja shrine. Equipped with their twigs of straw grass, they prepare to undertake a ritual walk through the torii (traditional Japanese portico) leading to the sanctuary. This symbolic walk is supposed to eliminate the impurities accumulated during the year which is ending. It thus prepares the participants to welcome the new year with a pure soul.
Inside the shrine, worshipers perform prayers for future prosperity, health and good fortune. The twigs of straw grass are then placed in a ritual fire. These burn symbolically and represent the release of negative energies and spiritual renewal.
Conclusion
Okera Mairi is not only a religious practice, but also a community celebration. Visitors often share convivial moments around the sanctuary, strengthening social bonds and creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
This unique tradition is a testament to the richness of Japanese culture and its commitment to deep spiritual rituals. Okera Mairi at Yasaka-jinja Shrine offers participants a meaningful experience, blending spirituality, tradition and community in celebrating the passing of one year to the next.
