Traditional decorations adorn entranceways across Japan during New Year, but few come bigger than those at a shrine in the city of Unzen, Nagasaki Prefecture.

Priests have put up a 14-meter-tall pair of pine and bamboo "kadomatsu" at the gate of Tachibana Shrine. They've maintained the custom for more than 20 years.

Volunteers spent a month preparing the decorations, which are made with 48 bamboo stems.

On Sunday, a group of junior high school students performed a ceremonial dance to mark the completion of the work.

And a group of history enthusiasts in traditional battle gear fired matchlock guns.

Some visitors from Fukuoka Prefecture said they feel lucky to see the decorations.

Shrine priest Tachibana Masaki pointed out that this year has been marred by natural disasters and war.

He added that he hopes people can lead happy and healthy lives in 2023.

The giant kadomatsu are on display through February 11.