New, Unused Oharae Doll Set These are human-shaped paper dolls (hitogata) used in the Oharae purification ritual. You write your name and age on the paper doll, breathe on it, and then use it as a stand-in to transfer your impurities (kegare) and sins, releasing them in the ritual. ● What is Oharae? "Oharae" is a Shinto ritual to purify and cleanse the mind and body by removing impurities (kegare) and sins (tsumi) accumulated in daily life. In Japan, it has been a widely established annual event, traditionally held on the last day of June and December. #Hitogata #Hitogata #Doll #Oharae #Shrine #Temple #Shingu (Shinto ritual items) #Purification #Burning Ceremony #Substitute #Purification