Re: Deer protection and attraction

In a message dated 97-03-02 19:28:25 EST, you write:

<< I have visited Japanese gardens with a Shishi Odoshi and loved the
 sound.  I would love to build one.
 	Does anyone have instructions or sources for a kit?. >>

We obtained our sozu kakehi several years ago from Japan Trading Co, 1762
Buchanan, SF, CA Phone: (415) 929-0989---I gave it to my wife as a Christmas
present.  If not available there you might try East West Imports in
Manchester, CT or East West Trading Co in New Haven, CT.  These firms used to
handle such items I believe, but I don't know if they still do (or even
whether they are still in business).  

I think what has been referred to as a shishi odoshi is the same thing as a
sozu kakehi, or a device originally intended to frighten wild boars.  One
writer called these "more fanciful than practical"  and I think this is
probably correct---but the sound is pleasant and I suspect that is the reason
these bamboo ornaments are so much beloved in Japan.  I had not heard these
called shishi odoshi before (but that is not uncommon for there is much I
have not heard of before). 

Since "shishi" can mean "dance"  I suspect this alternative name derives from
a story associated in Japan with the sozu kakehi.  It was told to me when a
Japanese friend was explaining the sozu kakehi, and I have read it a couple
of  times in books where the devise is mentioned. A man who lived in the city
used to put on a scary mask and a feathered costume and do a weird dance in
his garden every day.  When asked why he did this he said he was trying to
keep tigers away.  Wehn is was pointed out to him that there were no tigers
in Japan, the man said: "See, it works!"

So I hope you get your sozu kakehi (shishi odoshi)---and if you do I
guarantee you will have no wild boars or tigers in your garden!  As for
deers, the water just might attract them.  But, it will be a beautful
picture, especially if the Hanashobu (Japanese irises) are in bloom!  
Clarence Mahan in Va
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