The pine tree has long been a sacred symbol of the Japanese people. The pine tree's ability to maintain its lush foliage even in the cold of winter has been associated with the wish for "longevity" and the characteristic of having both male and female flowers on the same plant has been associated with the wish for "prosperity of offspring". Since the Edo period (1603-1867), pine trees have been depicted on the wooden walls of Noh stages as a plant in which gods dwell, and kadomatsu, a pine tree used to welcome the New Year, has become an indispensable part of both the performing arts and daily life. The strong vitality and beauty of the pine tree are loved by many people even today.