Memorial Day for Zodiac Figurines

Today, and February 11th annually, is Memorial Day for Zodiac Figurines 干支供養の日 Eto Kuyo no Hi. It is a uniquely Japanese day dedicated to expressing gratitude for zodiac figurines that have protected the household throughout the year. 

The idea behind the day is simple but deeply rooted in Japanese sensibility: zodiac figurines are displayed for a full year, absorbing misfortune and symbolically guarding the home. Once their role is complete, they are respectfully “returned to the earth.” The date was chosen because it falls just after Risshun, the start of spring, and because the characters for “11” can be interpreted as “earth” in this context. 

In Aichi Prefecture, Chūgai Tōen , a long‑established ceramics manufacturer known for zodiac figurines (among other things) hold a memorial service for the figurines. The old figurines are purified and then broken down into the soil. About half of this recycled material is then used to create new zodiac ornaments.

The photo in this post is of Tiger talisman figurines at the "Tiger Temple" in Saitama Prefecture.