Obihiro Centennial City Museum

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Ciros’ay
[Arrows dedicated to the Bear God]

ciros’ay [Arrows dedicated to the Bear God]

Ornamental arrows. These are ceremonial arrows offered to the bear kamuy (god) as a souvenir during iomante (sending ritual for bears). Fifty to sixty of these arrows are made for each occasion. The tips of the arrows are carved, and the shapes and patterns differ according to the region and individuals.