🎎 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (Kishiwada Float Festival)

The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival originated in 1703 during the mid-Edo period and was initially held to pray for a bountiful harvest. It has since evolved into a local autumn festival that has been passed down for over 300 years in Kishiwada. The festival mainly takes place in the area around Kishiwada Castle, where various towns pull floats known as "Danjiri" in a parade. The most exciting highlight of the Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is definitely the "drifting around corners." Weighing 4 tons, the floats are pulled by about 500 participants who make sharp right-angle turns without slowing down. Commands are given by the "Daikugata" (the chief carpenter) sitting on top of the float, and the sight of all the participants pulling the float in unison is truly breathtaking. In the evening, there is also the "lantern-lit procession." From 7 PM to 10 PM, the floats are adorned with about 200 illuminated lanterns, allowing spectators to enjoy the beautiful floats in a different ambiance from the daytime. Additionally, the intricate decorations of the floats are worth noting. Upon closer inspection, one can see that the entire float is adorned with carvings of historical figures, horses, and mythical beasts, showcasing various detailed sculptures. The decorative carvings on each town's float are also quite impressive. During the festival, the entire Kishiwada area is engulfed in excitement. On the day of the festival, the fierce spectacle of pulling the floats captures everyone's attention, and the corners where the "drifting" occurs can be particularly dangerous, so please be mindful of your safety. Furthermore, please follow the guidance of festival staff along the routes where the floats are being pulled.

In the mid-Edo period, the autumn festival that has been passed down in the Kawachinagano area for over 300 years is celebrated. The float, weighing about 4 tons, performs a thrilling "drift turn" at right angles! The night is adorned with around 200 lanterns, showcasing a different beauty. The entire float is intricately carved, making it quite worth seeing. On the day of the festival, please follow the guidance of the festival staff.