Matsuri: traditional Japanese festivals and their rich traditions

Matsuri refers to traditional Japanese festivals held at different times of the year and in various locations throughout Japan. The word “matsuri” (祭り) literally translates to “festival” or “celebration.” These events have great cultural significance and are a vibrant manifestation of local traditions and beliefs.

Matsuri originated in the ancient Shinto religion and agricultural festivals. Many of these celebrations arose as rituals to honor the kami (deities) and ensure a good harvest. Over time, they have also incorporated elements of Buddhism and other regional traditions.

Types of Matsuri

Religious Festivals:

• • Gion Matsuri in Kyoto: one of the most famous and oldest festivals in Japan. It is held in July. It is notable for its large floats called yama and hokowho parade through the streets. It began in 869 as a ritual to purify the city of Kyoto from a plague. The festival is believed to have originated as a ceremony to appease the kami (Shinto deities) and protect the city from disease and disaster. The Gion Matsuri has evolved over time, incorporating various contemporary cultural and religious elements.

• • Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka: Held in July, this is known for its boat parade and impressive fireworks display. Tenjin Matsuri originated in the 9th century and is dedicated to Tenjin, the Shinto god of wisdom and education, identified with the scholar Sugawara no Michizane. Michizane was a prominent official and poet of the Heian period who, after his death, was deified and credited with miracles in protecting students and promoting scholarship.

Seasonal Festivals:

• • Tanabata Matsuri: Held in July to commemorate the myth of the stars Vega and Altair, the streets are decorated with colorful papers and wishes are made on strips of paper.

• • Awa Odori in Tokushima: dance festival held in August during Obon, known for its lively traditional dance Awa OdoriIt has its roots in the Edo period (1603-1868) and is believed to have originated from celebrations held for the workers’ festival. Legend has it that during a banquet in 1587, at the celebration of the Tokushima castle, the feudal lord Hachisuka Iemasa, his guests began to dance without worrying about ridicule, which led to the beginning of this popular dance.

Harvest Festivals:

• • Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo: Celebrated in May, this is one of the three major festivals in Tokyo, with grand processions and festivities to ensure the prosperity of the city. This festival has a long history dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Its origins are related to the veneration of the kami (Shinto deities) at the Kanda Myojin Shrine, one of the oldest and most prominent Shinto shrines in Tokyo. It began as a ceremony to thank the kami for their protection and blessings.