Another year, another matsuri in Japan. This is going to be a series of posts of different mastusris that I've been to and hopefully will be going to this summer.
(Hachioji Matsuri)
What is a matsuri? A matsuri 祭り is a festival in Japan, part carnival, part parade, part tradition and total fun. Each one can be very specific to the city/region they are held and while held throughout the year, July and August see some of the most and the biggest across the country. Some are very old and traditional, some are more modern and eclectic. Most have games for the kids, signing & dancing, floats, fireworks, alcohol, food & the spirit of celebration. Occasionally I've even been fortunate enough to take part in some.
(Getting Warmed Up! I really did pull the float after this ;) )
I'll start out with some matsuris from my wife's hometown, Kazuno, Akita. It's way up north in an area known for it's high quality rice, apples, delicious chicken & gold/copper mines. They are held in July through August including during Obon, a buddhist festival honoring their ancestors. Floats are created & decorated by the young and the old from the community. Childeren, teenagers, 20 somethings, adults & seniors all come together to build them, operate them and tow them through the streets.
My mother-in-law participates in the Bon Odori, Obon dance.
The game booths for kids are only rivaled by the food & beverage booths for adults.
One matsuri has an interesting twist, along the parade route the locals & businesses give an offering to the group that they like the best. Proceeds are then split up at the end of the night amongst the children & next year's matsuri fund. Kids sure do know how to spend it.
Matsuris are a time to let loose, have fun, and celebrate so come with me as I take you to a many more! Each Sunday I'll be doing another post for different matsuris, so put on your yukata and join me!
Next up: Hachioji, Tokyo, two matsuris there, one big and one small.