Fitting for the Deities: Sacred Ornamentation Purifies and Elevates

Shinto shrines have sacred shimenawa ropes, bells with cords attached, mirrors, various fittings, and ceremonial ornamentation that have adorned these places of worship since time immemorial. Made from wood, metal, silk threads, hemp, and other materials, this ornamentation became more elaborate and brilliant in the hands of artisans who gathered in the ancient capital, Heian-kyo, when it was established some 1,200 years ago. These crafts, which live on today, link worshippers with the deities.