An exhibition titled "HANDS - Takumi no Waza to Asobigokoro," or HANDS - skills and imaginativeness of craftsmen, in which young craftsmen who create votive and ritual objects in Kyoto display traditional handicrafts, began on March 10 at Gallery-EMU in Entokuin Temple's precincts, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto. Ritual utensils used in the Aoi Festival and miscellaneous goods made by hand, using traditional techniques, are being exhibited. Craftsmen said, "We want visitors to come into touch with the craftsmanship that supports Shinto rituals from behind scenes."

The exhibition was planned by a youth association within "Kyoto Jingi Kogei Kyodo Kumiai," a cooperative association of craftsmen who create paraphernalia and costumes for Shinto rites, for the first time for the public in Kyoto Prefecture. Eleven craftsmen in their 20s to 40s, who specialize in making metallic ornaments, woodwork, drums and other objects, are showing approximately 50 items.

Among items exhibited at the gallery are "Rokushiki Honken Hiyogi," a lace tassel decorating the fan held by the "Saio-dai," or heroine, of the Aoi Festival, and a "Kagura Suzu" bell that is used when shrine attendants offer dances to deities. There is also a gold honeycomb pattern "Eboshi" cap used in Noh plays, and visitors can appreciate close-up detail of the craftsmen's handiwork.

A small "Suzuo" rope that can be used as an interior decoration and a mirror pendant on which a flying dragon appears on the surface when light is reflected on it are also being exhibited.

A leader of the youth association said, "We hope visitors will recognize the existence of Jingi craftsmen and look at Shinto ritual objects."

The exhibition will continue until April 12, from 12:00p.m. to 6:30p.m. There is no admission fee. The gallery is closed on Wednesdays.