Curiosity piqued, we stand before the Barrels of Sake Wrapped in Straw. These aren’t just barrels. They’re komodaru. Komodaru’s “komo” is like a straw mat made with rice straw. This “komo” is wrapped around the barrels and secured with ropes. Here at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, these Barrels of Sake Wrapped in Straw hold a special significance. They are offerings, a testament to the relationship between deities and sake in Japan. They stand as a tribute to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
The Barrels of Sake Wrapped in Straw are a visual feast. They are donated by Japanese sake brewers across the country. This tradition honors the divine souls enshrined at Meiji Jingu Shrine. It acknowledges Emperor Meiji’s role in Japan’s modernization during the Meiji era (1868-1912). The Barrels of Sake Wrapped in Straw are more than just decorations. They’re a powerful symbol uniting brewers with their gods. They represent prosperity, happiness, and success.
The shrine itself, destroyed in 1945 and rebuilt in 1958, is a testament to resilience. The offering of sake, or miki/omiki as it’s sometimes called, has deep roots in Shinto. The word itself combines the symbols for god and liquor. This speaks to the long-standing association between deities and sake. Drinking sake has traditionally been a way for people to feel closer to their gods.
The Barrels of Sake Wrapped in Straw at Meiji Jingu Shrine embody this spiritual connection. They symbolize the gratitude of the brewers and their prayers for continued prosperity, not just for their industry, but for all industries upholding Japan’s traditional culture. They serve as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of sake in Japan. A simple offering with a profound message.