Kanazawa's winter tradition, "KOMOGAKE at Naga-machi Bukeyashiki Ruins" [Event has ended] [Event has ended] [Event has ended] [Event has ended

  • Ishikawa
  • Sightseeing
The other day, the Hokuriku region was hit by a huge cold wave and heavy snowfall, which you may have heard about as it was in the national news. Kanazawa was also covered with nearly 20 cm of snow overnight, making the whole area a snowy scene!
Now, in Kanazawa, there are still cultures and customs inherited in preparation for snow. It is also now known as a wintertime tradition in Kanazawa.
This time, we would like to introduce Kanazawa's snow countermeasure, "komogake," which is comparable to "yukisuri," or snow hanging.

What is "komogake"? ......

Komogake" is a measure taken to protect the earthen walls of samurai residences from freezing and snow damage, and is set up around the beginning of December each year. It can be seen around the Naga-machi Buke Yashiki (samurai residence) area near Korinbo, Kanazawa's downtown area, and is a custom that heralds the arrival of winter.
For more information about the Naga-machi Bukeyashiki Ruins, please refer to this article!
This custom is deeply related to the characteristics of snowfall in Kanazawa. The snow that falls in Kanazawa is characterized by the high moisture content of the snow. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent damage from moisture from the snow from earthen walls and soil peeling from adhered snowfall. The earthen walls are protected by spreading moko (straw and rope woven together) under the roof of the earthen walls. The moko are carefully woven by hand by craftsmen. It is a tradition that is still being passed down today.
Craftsmen's skill shines through in this seamless weave!
Kanazawa's landscape is protected by such traditional techniques and culture. When it snows, the traditional townscape of samurai residences is covered with white makeup, creating a different kind of beautiful scenery.
Image courtesy of Kanazawa City
Komokake can be seen until mid-March. Please come and see the scenery of Kanazawa in winter.
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