🎎 Sanja Matsuri

The "Sanja Matsuri," held in Asakusa, Tokyo, takes place on the third weekend of May, spanning three days from Friday to Sunday. It is affectionately referred to by the locals as "Sanja-sama," with its official name being "Asakusa Shrine Grand Festival." Each year, these three days attract 1.8 million visitors, making it one of Japan's most iconic festivals. The festival kicks off with lively dance performances from various groups in Asakusa, including traditional dances by geisha and group dances. On the final day, the three portable shrines (mikoshi) depart from the main shrine and parade through the town, concluding after returning to the shrine at sunset. It retains the charm of the Edo period and is a vibrant celebration. One of the highlights is the "Kagura Binzasara Mai" (神事びんざさら舞), a sacred dance dedicated to the deities. This dance, designated as an intangible folk cultural asset of Tokyo, features the performance of an instrument called "Abenuki," while scattering red and white paper pieces to pray for a bountiful harvest and the dispelling of evil spirits. It also incorporates lion dance elements, invoking blessings for future generations and the alleviation of illness and disasters.

The Asakusa Shrine's annual Sanja Matsuri, held in May, is one of Japan's representative festivals. The three-day event attracts approximately 1.8 million visitors, making it a hallmark of early summer in Tokyo. On the first day, the "Shinji Binzasara Mai" dedicated to the deity is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Tokyo. On the final day, the procession of the main shrine's portable shrine, known as "mikoshi," involves transporting it on a cart called "hikidai" through the streets. The departure and return of the procession are carried out by the shrine's parishioners.