holly and sardine charm
A traditional charm placed at the entrance during Setsubun (February 3rd) to ward off evil spirits. It consists of a holly branch and a sardine head, whose smell and prickly leaves are believed to repel demons.
See also: 節分
Some households decorate their entrance with a holly and sardine charm during Setsubun.
The holly and sardine charm is a talisman that uses holly leaves and sardine heads, which are said to be disliked by demons.
Compound of 柊 (ひいらぎ, 'holly') and 鰯 (いわし, 'sardine'). The charm's origin is tied to Setsubun traditions, but the exact historical derivation is uncertain.