Tori no Ichi (Rooster Market)
Tori no Ichi is held on Rooster Day of Chinese zodiac every year.
In 2010, it's November 7th and 19th.
This event is held in Otori-jinja Shrine, which is the northern part of Asakusa.
A bamboo rake market is set up.
We call a bamboo rake "KUMADE" in Japanese.
The street stalls sell the bamboo rakes decorated with various lucky charms.
These are considered as the lucky charm in Japan.
Why is it KUMADE which they started selling in Tori no Ichi?
It is said that KUMADE imitates the hawk's talons, which imagine the eagle grabbing a feed.
The action to rake up gives us the impression of grabbing the happiness.
Many people visit Tori no Ichi every year to purchase a colorful KUMADE.
Get KUMADE, and "rake in" good luck !!