 Originating in ancient times, "himorogi" are temporarily erected sacred spaces or "altars" used as a locus of worship.A physical area is demarcated with branches of green bamboo or "sakaki" at the four corners, between which are strung sacred border ropes ("shimenawa").In the center of the area a large branch of sakaki festooned with sacred emblems ("hei") is erected as a "yorishiro", a physical representation of the presence of the kami and toward which rites of worship are performed.