Traditional Hamayumi by Juho Tougei

What Are Hamayumi?

Hamayumi literally means “a bow that dispels evil.” These ornamental bows and arrows have long been associated with protection from misfortune and the purification of negative influences.

In Japan, bows have been used symbolically since ancient times. Traditions such as the Heian-period meigen no gi, in which a bowstring was sounded to drive away evil, and New Year divination ceremonies contributed to the development of Hamayumi as auspicious New Year decorations.

Today, Hamayumi are appreciated not only for their traditional meaning but also as distinctive Japanese decorative objects. Their carefully arranged bows, arrows, fittings, and display platforms bring a dignified and refined presence to contemporary interiors.

To learn more about their history and meaning, please visit our “About Hamayumi” guide.

Types of Hamayumi

Freestanding Hamayumi

Freestanding arrangements allow the materials, form, and craftsmanship of the Hamayumi itself to be viewed without a case. Many designs combine bows and arrows with wooden platforms or decorative panels. They are generally lightweight and easy to handle, making them suitable for compact spaces and natural-style interiors.

Hamayumi in Display Cases

Display cases help protect the bows, arrows, and decorative fittings from dust and dirt, making regular care easier. Designs range from traditional glass cases to contemporary acrylic cases with furniture-style frames, circular forms, and panoramic constructions.

Wall-Mounted Hamayumi

Wall-mounted Hamayumi are space-saving decorations suitable for rooms with limited shelf or storage space. The collection includes open displays and designs enclosed in slim acrylic cases. Their shallow construction creates less visual pressure and allows them to complement contemporary rooms, entrances, and reception areas.

Slim Framed Hamayumi

Slim framed Hamayumi offer protection from dust while occupying relatively little space. Their shallow frames create a clean, contemporary appearance, and some designs can either be hung on a wall or displayed upright on a shelf. Lightweight acrylic construction also makes them suitable for apartments and compact interiors.

Coordinated Pair Sets

Coordinated two-piece arrangements are available for customers who wish to display matching or complementary New Year decorations together. Options include pairs of Hamayumi and combinations of Hamayumi and Hagoita. Please contact us if you would like matching designs, complementary colors, or a coordinated pair.

How to Choose a Hamayumi

Size Guide for Freestanding Displays

• Approximately 25–30 cm high: Compact and easy to display in a limited space
• Approximately 35–45 cm high: A standard size with a stronger visual presence
• 50 cm high or more: A substantial size suited to a more formal or impressive display

Before selecting a Hamayumi, we recommend measuring both the available height and depth of the intended display area. Consider shelf spacing, ceiling clearance, furniture depth, and the dimensions of entrance counters or display cabinets.

Choose According to the Display Space

Compact freestanding arrangements and smaller display cases work well on cabinets, shelves, and living-room furniture. Taller cased displays create a more impressive presence in spacious rooms, entrance halls, and traditional Japanese interiors. Wall-mounted and slim framed styles are suitable where floor or shelf space is limited.

Display Cases or Freestanding Styles

• Display cases: Help protect the Hamayumi from dust and dirt, make regular care easier, and preserve its appearance over time.
• Freestanding styles: Allow the textures and construction of the bows and arrows to be viewed directly. They are generally lightweight, flexible to display, and often more affordable.

Consider ease of handling, available storage space, visual style, and compatibility with the surrounding interior when making your selection.

Hamayumi by Juho Tougei

Juho Tougei offers a wide selection of Hamayumi, ranging from traditional arrangements to contemporary furniture-inspired designs. Our collection includes compact panoramic displays such as “Gekko,” circular acrylic cases such as “Tsuki,” and designs featuring natural wood or oak-finished frames.

Many of these contemporary arrangements are JUHO TOUGEI original products, created to preserve the dignity and protective symbolism of Hamayumi while complementing modern living spaces.

Our collection also includes wall-mounted displays, slim framed styles, and coordinated two-piece arrangements. Combinations with Hagoita and alternative case styles may also be available. Please contact us to discuss your preferred display style.

Shop Hamayumi by Category

Choose from the categories below according to your preferred style and available display space.