What is a Sugidama?
A Sugidama is a distinctive decoration hung outside sake shops in Japan. It consists of a series of green, spherical balls, each measuring about 15-20 cm in diameter, which are made from cedar leaves. When the Sugidama is new, it boasts a vibrant green color, but over time, it gradually turns brown.
The Origins of Sugidama
There are several theories about the origins of Sugidama, but two of the most prominent ones are:
Cedar’s Anti-Bacterial and Insect-Repelling Properties
Cedar is known for its natural anti-bacterial and insect-repelling properties. In the past, sake shop owners would create these cedar leaf balls and hang them outside their shops to protect their valuable sake from insects and deterioration.
Serving as a Landmark
During the Edo period (1603-1868), sake shops held a special privilege called “sake kabu.” The Sugidama is believed to have been used as a landmark to identify these privileged shops. For the common people of that time, the Sugidama served as an important symbol to distinguish sake shops from other establishments.
The Changing Colors of Sugidama
Why does the color of a Sugidama change from green to brown as it ages? The answer lies in the sake shop’s business practices.
When a new batch of sake is ready, the shop owners hang a fresh, green Sugidama to announce its arrival. As the seasons change and the new sake is sold out, the green Sugidama is replaced with an older, brown one. In other words, the color of the Sugidama used to indicate the freshness of the sake available at the shop.
The Role of Sugidama in Modern Times
Today, the Sugidama is maintained as a traditional decoration for sake shops. Its role has shifted from a practical one, such as protecting the sake from insects and deterioration, to a more symbolic one, serving as an emblem of the shop itself. Moreover, the color change from green to brown no longer necessarily signifies the freshness of the sake.
Nevertheless, the presence of Sugidama remains an integral part of the Japanese landscape, continuing to delight and intrigue passersby. The next time you visit a sake shop, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and meaning behind this iconic symbol.
