Higan

Higan [辣麩; ひがん] is the tradition of hunting wild deer native to the Zōku (northern) region of Kanton. It is most popular in the prefectures of Ganyama, Heisai and Kawara. Hunters are known as higante or higansha. Because deer have long been viewed as divine and sacred animals, their meat, antlers and hide is considered blessed. In particular, amulets and charms made from antler have long been fashioned as protective accessories to ward away bad luck.
With the introduction of firearms in the 19th century, and the rise of domestic rifle manufacture in Kanton, the tradition of hunting deer in a group has diminished somewhat, leading to a decline in higan culture. However, there are still many active groups and associations keeping the ancient tradition alive.
The tradition of higan centres around the ancient belief in nature as a supernatural force. The deer are perceived as gifts and messengers of the gods, and the higante take care to prepare and butcher the animal in an honourific and respectful way. The carcass is praised, and the spirit blessed or comforted. Then, to recompense for the loss of life, everything from the fur to the internal organs is used practically. Emphasis is put on the act of taking the deer's life ritualistically, which is why many higante choose to hunt with traditional weapons such as spears and crossbows rather than rifles. Hunting is not viewed as a sport, but as a way of life.
== Literary references ==
Higan is referenced and described in the novel Doe Eyes by Yoji Yamizake, a fictional memoir of a modern-day higante living in Kawara Prefecture. Higante figure as primary characters in the visual novel Girl at the Bottom of the Lake by Waka Narogi, which is set in 17th-century Ankan.