Japanese festivals, “Matsuri” are traditional events that are often held from early summer to autumn.
These festivals can be enjoyed all over Japan and you can experience Japanese culture. This time, we will introduce spots where you can enjoy “matsuri” in Tokyo.
1. Outline of “Matsuri”
In ancient times, it was held to celebrate the change of seasons and to give thanks to the gods.
Its purpose has not changed even now, but it is popular as a summer tradition. “Festivals are usually held on weekends and include parades, floats, food stalls, live music, and more.
2. Festival history
“Festivals have been part of Japanese culture for centuries.
This “festival” was held to celebrate the harvest and give thanks to the gods.
After that, ‘matsuri’, which had been held with religious connotations until the Meiji period, came to be held with secular connotations.
Today, matsuri are held for a variety of reasons, including to celebrate the changing of the seasons, for important events, and to attract tourists.
3. The biggest and most famous festival in Tokyo. Sanja Festival
Sanja Matsuri is one of the most famous and big festivals in Tokyo.
The Sanja Matsuri is an annual festival held at Asakusa Shrine in Asakusa,
Taito Ward, Tokyo, every May. It used to be divided into the Kannon Festival, Funamatsuri, and Jigenkai, but since 1872, it has been held on May 17th and 18th.
Currently, it is held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in the third week of May.
The name comes from the former name of Asakusa Shrine, Sansha Daigongensha or Sansha Myojin Shrine. The official name is “Asakusa Shrine Reitaisai”.
Three major events are held: the procession of the three mikoshi, the purification ceremony, and the yomiya.
The highlight of the festival is the parade of the three portable shrines, which are carried around the city.
Misogi is held at Senso-ji Temple, where you purify yourself with the spring water of Senso-ji Temple. There are various food and game stalls.
4. Traditional and Popular Festival: Kanda Festival
The Kanda Festival is a festival held at Kanda Myojin Shrine in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. Also known as the Kanda Myojin Festival, it is considered one of the three major Edo festivals along with the Sanno Festival and the Fukagawa Hachiman Festival.
It is counted as one of Japan’s three major festivals along with the Gion Festival in Kyoto and the Tenjin Festival in Osaka.
The festival is currently held in mid-May. More than 100 portable shrines parade. Depart from Kanda Myojin and parade through the streets of Tokyo. There are also various food and game stalls.
Summary
If you want to experience Tokyo in a fun way, be sure to check out Tokyo’s “matsuri”. From the Sanja Festival to the Kanda Festival, there is sure to be a festival you can enjoy.
Supplement: How to enjoy festivals
“Matsuri” is an ancient Japanese traditional event that celebrates the change of seasons.
“Matsuri” are held all over Japan and are a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture. If you are planning to attend a “matsuri” there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
1.Types of shops that open at “Matsuri”
There are various shops that open a store at the “festival”. From food stalls to souvenir shops, there is something for everyone.
If you know what kind of shops are open, you can act systematically.
2.Food you can enjoy at a “Matsuri”
The real pleasure of a “festival” is food. There are various traditional foods served at “festivals”.
Takoyaki, yakisoba, okonomiyaki, etc. are all things that everyone can enjoy. Knowing what to expect makes planning easier.
What is Takoyaki?
What is Yakisoba?
What is Okonomiyaki?
3.Fun Experiences at “Matsuri”
You can enjoy not only food but also various experiences at “matsuri”. There is something for everyone, from traditional Japanese dances to taiko drumming. Knowing what you can expect will help you plan ahead.
4.Precautions for enjoying “Matsuri”
There are a few things to keep in mind when enjoying a “matsuri”. First of all, it is important to pay attention to your clothes. Since the “matsuri” takes place outdoors, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather. Second, it is important to respect the culture. “Matsuri” is an ancient tradition, so it is important to respect its customs and traditions.
