Sewing machine © alecs apple
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Many ceremonies are held around the world to commemorate loved ones, aging flags–but only one is dedicated to old sewing needles.
Every year on February 8th, Japanese tailors lay their used needles to rest in “hari-kuyo”, a festival held in Buddhist temples. The old needles are stuck into pieces of tofu or jelly. It’s a tradition with over 4oo years of history, and is rooted in the Shinto belief that all things have a soul and spirit.
I came here to say thank you, said Keiko Kurukata, a 73-year-old kimono-maker surrounded by her four apprentices. We prayed to improve our kimono-making skills, one of the apprentices added.
More details on the ‘tailored’ festival can be found on Reuters.