Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for luck — hamaya or kumade?
Neither is superior — they serve different purposes. Hamaya is a protective talisman to repel evil and misfortune. Kumade actively gathers in fortune, business success, and good luck. Homes typically display hamaya; businesses and shops favor kumade.
Do I have to replace my kumade every year?
Tori-no-Ichi tradition holds that replacing your kumade with a progressively larger one brings increasing luck. However, this is not a strict obligation. When purchasing a new kumade, returning the previous year’s to the shrine for proper disposal is the correct etiquette.
Which direction should I face my hamaya?
Generally, point it toward the direction from which evil might come — for entrance halls, outward or toward the northeast (the traditional “oni gate”). For household altars, pointing east or south is considered auspicious. Since practices vary by region and shrine, checking with the issuing shrine is always the most reliable approach.
Last updated: April 25, 2026