ornament representing the Isle of Eternal Youth
A traditional Japanese New Year's decoration, often a stand with a miniature island and pine, bamboo, and plum motifs, symbolizing longevity and good fortune. Also used in wedding ceremonies.
We display a shimadai ornament in the alcove at New Year's.
A shimadai was placed at the wedding reception venue.
Compound of 島 (shima, 'island') and 台 (dai, 'stand'). The name refers to the stand representing the mythical Isle of Eternal Youth (Horai).