Barrels of sake, Japan (6 pics)

The barrels of sake found in Shinto Shrines and seen here are Kazari-daru.

If we translate Kazari-daru, we get Decorative Wood Barrel and that's exactly what it is.

Most of these barrels having been delivered empty, they are only used for decorative purposes.

Especially during festivals and ceremonies, temples will receive several gifts of empty barrels, but don't worry, they will also receive alcohol to celebrate, but in other recipients.

Sake brewers donate to shrine in exchange shrines perform rituals to bring prosperity to brewers.

It is a win-win collaboration.

The barrel walls are really cool to see.

I find it interesting to be able to admire so many logos of different sake in one place.

I find it very artistic.

I think it's a good thing that they're empty, that way the decorative wrapping is preserved.

Because with all this alcohol, I don't think there would be much left to admire at the end of the festivals.

Under the decorative layer, the barrels are composed of cedar slates strapped together with bamboo braids.

When used to transport liquid, these barrels are called Komo-daru.

In the past, they were used to transport liquids like oil or soy sauce, but as the wood affects the taste of what it contains, sake only spends a few days in these barrels before being served.

With the amount of barrel seen here, I imagine a big party is brewing soon.

Too bad I came by too early to participate.

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Photo taken with a Canon PowerShot SX500 IS.

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