"Kadomatsu" bamboo and pine ornaments for the New Year are seen at a workshop at the gardening company Chinjuen Co. in the Osaka Prefecture city of Ibaraki in this recent photo, as shipments hit their peak. Eight craftspeople set three pieces of bamboo tied with rope upright, and decorate them with pine and plum tree branches along with purple kale and nandina. Craftspeople consider the balance of each kadomatsu while making the traditional displays. About 570 sets will be made and shipped nationwide, with sizes varying to suit the needs of customers. Hiroki Kitamoto, 42, the manager of the firm, said, "Due to the effect of the coronavirus, it's not going to be the usual New Year, but we hope customers at least enjoy the atmosphere."

       (Japanese original by Tatsuya Onishi, Osaka Photo Department)

       In Photos: Japan's traditional 'Kadomatsu' decorations ready for New Year

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