How to take part in a Matsuri (Japanese cultural festivals)?
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Matsuri are closely related to the lives of Japanese people and preserve a strong sense of their ancient culture. Many Matsuri welcome tourists, and by participating you can learn about Japanese culture and history. Sharing the special events with local people is sure to be a special experience for you.
This article introduces you to how to participate in Matsuri, the fun you can experience in the stalls, and how to enjoy Matsuri comfortably.
1. How to enjoy Matsuri
It is said that there are hundreds of thousands of Matsuri in Japan. Most events are open to locals and visitors, and you can participate in casual clothes. Watching the parade and taking pictures is fun in itself, of course, but you can enjoy festivals even more by taking them one step further. What is the best way?
1. Chant together
Chanting is the easiest way to join Matsuri. There are certain chants in each festival such as "Washoi" or "Oisa" for Mikoshi (portable shrines), "Rassera Rassera" in Nebuta Festival, "Yattosa Yatto Yatto," in Awa Odori. If you chant together, you will feel a sense of unity with the locals.
2. Rent traditional Japanese costumes
If you join Matsuri wearing Japanese costumes, the memories are more special. There is a simple kimono called Yukata for summer, which you can try relatively comfortably. At tourist spots, Yukata rentals and dressing are available as a set, allowing anyone to try on a Yukata. There are also specific costumes for the festival shaped like a short gown called Happi or Hanten.
3. Dance together
When you're in a festive mood, let's dance together! Most Bon Odori (traditional Japanese folk dances) repeat the same movements, and anyone can learn to dance just by watching and moving along with local dancers.
2. How to enjoy Yatai (stalls)
Another interest of the Matsuri is Yatai (stalls). You can buy simple snacks to eat while walking. In addition to takoyaki, yakisoba and taiyaki, there are also Yatai selling french fries, kebabs, frankfurters (sausages), and more. Also, depending on the region, there are characteristic Yatai and featured seafood and other local dishes.
For children, games in the stalls are a great enjoyment of the festival. You can experience children's games such as goldfish scooping, target shooting, yo-yo fishing, and ring toss. There are also stalls where you can feel the tradition of Japan, such as Amezaiku (traditional candy craft artistry), Kumanote (bamboo rakes), Daruma (Japanese traditional doll), and Hagoita (traditional battledore).
3. How to carry Mikoshi (portable miniature shrine)
If we are talking about Matsuri, Mikoshi (portable shrine) is one of the well-known leading objects. The passion, cheerfulness, and happiness of the participants will make you feel like joining in to carry Mikoshi.
Mikoshi belongs to the shrine, and the Shrines have an organization called Ujiko, which consists of residents in the area. Ujiko wear matching outfits called Hanten or Happi. Hanten and Happi are also intended to clarify the affiliation of Ujiko, and people who do not wear the Hanten or Happi are not able to participate in carrying Mikoshi. It sounds exclusive, but local people will be overjoyed if you chant such as "Washoi" or "Oisa" together. You will feel a sense of unity with the participants and other locals.
4. How to enjoy Bon Odori (Japanese traditional folk dance)
Most Japanese folk dances repeat the same movement, so anyone can easily try it. We will introduce how to enjoy it.
Bon Odori: Dancing in a circle around the drum tower. It is open to everyone, and you can dance whenever you like.
Parade-style Dance: In addition to watching the parade of the performers, there are also festivals where the audience can dance together. Some festivals do not allow you to participate unless you wear a costume.
This special festival will be more fun if you dance together! By moving your body together, you can experience Japanese culture and make new local friends. Please feel free to join in the circle of dancing.
5. Festival related facilities
If you go to Matsuri, you should visit the related museum. Towns with major festivals have such facilities, and many have multilingual support.
There are exhibits about the tools used in Matsuri, allowing you to learn more deeply. Furthermore, many facilities serve as storage areas for floats and Mikoshi and are a chance to take a close look at the real items, which are difficult to see during the actual festival. You can also listen to stories from craftsmen, try out costumes, and take commemorative photos.
6. What to bring with you
When going to a Matsuri, you should be careful to keep your luggage as small as possible. Be sure to leave large luggage at your hotel because the crowds are large, and there are few places where you can leave your luggage at the festival venue.
The next important thing is to prepare cash. Most Yatai do not accept credit cards, so prepare small change or 1,000 yen bills.
Moreover, do not forget the heat measures. Summer is extremely hot during Japan's festival season. Towels, drinks, and sunshades are essential.
7. Access and Accommodation
It is recommended to use public transportation such as trains and buses to go to the festival. During Matsuri, there are additional trains and buses, but they can be very crowded. Get there early and enjoy sightseeing at your leisure. Also, there are very few facilities nearby allowing you to stay overnight during the Matsuri, so reservations must be made several months in advance.
8. Souvenirs
At the end of the trip, please buy a souvenir. The best way to end your trip is to pick up some souvenirs. In addition to local specialties, you can also buy Matsuri-related goods such as Tenugui (Japanese towel), Hanten (traditional short coat), and T-shirts. Tenugui is a good option as you can fold it into a small size, choose a pattern, and use it as a scarf or hat while traveling.