Shohei Ohtani, the world-renowned Japanese baseball sensation, is not only known for his incredible prowess on the field but also for his deep connection to Japanese culture and craftsmanship. One of his more intriguing personal items that reflects this blend of tradition and modernity is Decoy's Charm Chirimen, a unique collectible that showcases his appreciation for the art of Japan’s traditional textile and craft techniques.
During the recent Dodgers World Series championship parade, Ohtani appeared holding Dekopin, alongside his wife Mamiko and teammates, riding on a double-decker bus. He responded to the cheers of the fans who lined the streets. Throughout the parade, there were several moments captured on broadcast footage where Ohtani was seen bringing his face close to Dekopin’s neck and sniffing him—an affectionate behavior often called "dog sniffing."
Photos of Ohtani and Dekopin were widely shared, appearing on the official Dodgers X (formerly Twitter), MLB’s official X, and various U.S. media outlets. Among these photos, a closer look revealed that Dekopin was wearing a charm-like item around his neck, shaped like paw prints.
Chirimen Pet Charm (ちりめんペット守り) is a traditional Japanese craft item designed to bring good luck and protection to pets. The term "ちりめん" (chirimen) refers to a type of crinkled, textured silk fabric that has been used in Japan for centuries, particularly for making kimonos and other ornamental items. "守り" (mamori) means "protection" or "amulet," indicating that the charm is intended to safeguard the pet.
These Chirimen Pet Charms are often crafted with intricate designs and motifs such as paw prints, lucky symbols, or small animals, and are typically hung as accessories on collars, pet carriers, or placed in the pet’s living space. The charm is believed to provide blessings, good health, and safety to the pet, reflecting the deep cultural significance of protective talismans in Japan.
As an item, Chirimen Pet Charms are not only a beautiful and meaningful accessory for pets but also a way to combine traditional Japanese textile art with the love and care we have for our furry companions.
If you're ever in Japan, I highly recommend picking one up as a souvenir. Whether you're a Dodgers fan, an Ohtani fan, or not, it's the perfect charm to protect your furry family members.
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