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Quirky Japanese Festivals 193 images Created 12 Mar 2009

Despite Japan's modern high-tech image, numerous festivals are held throughout the year. Summer festivals or matsuri are extravaganzas of color and exuberance, springtime hanami cherry blossom viewing is a long-time favorite, exotic lanterns at Star Tanabata festivals, or O-bon in August is a panorama of brightly colored kimono, lanterns and dancing.
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  • Bon Lanterns - Obon ends with floating of lanterns that are illuminated and then floated on ponds, down rivers or on the ocean.  This symbolically signals the ancestral spirits' return from Earth back to the world of the dead.
    obon-3.jpg
  • Kanamara Matsuri or Festival of the Phallus is an annual Shinto fertility festival held in Kawasaki in spring. The penis forms the central theme of the event that is reflected everywhere: candy, carved vegetables, decorations, sake bottles and a parade. The Kanamara Matsuri is centered around a local penis venerating shrine once popular among prostitutes who wished to pray for protection against sexual problems and diseases.
    kanamara-shrine-3.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night.  Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-7.jpg
  • There are about a hundred different styles and types of Japanese kites, each region having its own unique shape. They are normally decorated with characters from Japanese folklore, mythology or have some religious or symbolic meaning. Traditionally kites are flown on boy's day May 5th.  At Harvest Festival kites are flown with stalks of rice attached as a symbolic offering of thanks for a good crop. Others are decorated with the face of a demon and would act as a talisman against evil.
    giant-kite-festival-1.jpg
  • Bald Mengake Mask at the Mengake Mask Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this unique Kamakura event local men wearing grotesque or comical masks leave Goshi Shrine parade through the nearby streets before returning to the shrine for the ceremony.
    mengake-4.jpg
  • Furin Windchimes Festival, Kawasaki - The notoriously muggy summers in Japan have led to various ways to beat the heat.  Increasingly popular are cool summer kimono, made of cotton, that people are starting to wear again out on the streets especially at festival times.
    furin-festival-1.jpg
  • Japanese Kids in Kimono at the local horseback archery festival held in Zushi, Kanagawa-ken.  Apart from the archery itself, the preceding parade is full of local color, with citizens dressed in traditional costumes, kimono and even samurai.
    kids-kimono.jpg
  • Japanese boy at Shichi-Go-San, literally seven-five-three, a traditional rite of passage in Japan held annually on November 15.  The event is not a national holiday, so it is often observed on the nearest weekend and these days througout November.  Boys who are aged three or five and girls who are aged three or seven are dressed in kimono, usually for the first time, for visits to shrines.
    shichi-go-san-3.jpg
  • Sensuijima Sea Breem Festival Dance - The way in which Japanese dance is performed depends on each region, though the typical public dance involves dancing in a circle.  The dance of a region can illuminate the area's history and specialization.
    festival-kimono-3.jpg
  • Shrines throng with buzzing crowds, the air punctuated by rhythmic clapping and the shouts of vendors and patrons. It's an atmosphere utterly traditional. Ornate charms, called Kumade, are sold at shrine market stalls to customers eager to ensure good health, good fortune and good business in the coming year.  These Tori-no-ichi markets are held every November.
    tori-no-ichi-1.jpg
  • Young Japanese boy kitted out in samurai gear. Samurai is the term for the military nobility of pre-industrial Japan. The samurai followed a set of written rules called the Bushido. Samurai teachings can still be found today in modern day society especially in the world of Japanese martial arts.  Various samurai re-enactments are held throughout Japan, with lots of attention to detail in  costumes and demeanor - not all that much changed since the 12th century.
    samurai-1.jpg
  • Gosho Shrine Matsuri, Kamakura - Japanese festivals are traditional festive occasions.  Matsuri is the Japanese word for festival.  These events are normally sponsored by a local shrine.  Matsuri almost always feature processions with mikoshi or portable shrines, that are carried around the neighborhood and even into the ocean along coastal areas such as Kamakura.
    japanese-tattoo-03.jpg
  • Yukata is a Japanese summer robe. People wearing yukata are a common sight at fireworks displays, bon odori festivals and other summer events. The yukata is a casual form of kimono that is also frequently worn after bathing at traditional Japanese inns. Though their use is not limited to after bath wear, yukata literally means "bath clothes". Like other forms of clothing based on traditional Japanese garments, it is made with straight seams and wide sleeves. Unlike formal kimono, yukata are typically made of cotton rather than silk. Traditionally yukata were mostly made of indigo-dyed cotton but today a wide variety of colors and designs are available. Like the more formal kimono, the general rule is the younger the person, the brighter the color and bolder the pattern.
    obon-8.jpg
  • Mengake Mask Procession - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing grotesque or comical masks  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-2.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-18.jpg
  • Enoshima Koshogatsu Matsuri Mikoshi -  Koshigatsu or Little New Year celebrates the first full moon of the new year on the 15th day of January. The main events of Koshogatsu are rites and practices praying for a bountiful harvest, and rice gruel with azuki beans or bean paste  is traditionally eaten in the morning. New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine (they are normally never re-used for the following year).  One of the more popular activities is organized by local shinto shrines, involving a winter matsuri festival. Local men carry the mikoshi portable shrine into the ocean after firing themselves up with sake, then bring the mikoshi back to the shrine.  This ritual is most famously celebrated in Enoshima, near Kamakura, which draws thousands of spectators to the beach to participate in and watch the fundoshi loincloth men carry the mikoshi into the ocean, and back again.  It is a form of ritual cleansing and a way to brace onself for the new year.
    Koshogatsu-5.jpg
  • Enoshima Koshogatsu Matsuri Mikoshi -  Koshigatsu or Little New Year celebrates the first full moon of the new year on the 15th day of January. The main events of Koshogatsu are rites and practices praying for a bountiful harvest, and rice gruel with azuki beans or bean paste  is traditionally eaten in the morning. New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine (they are normally never re-used for the following year).  One of the more popular activities is organized by local shinto shrines, involving a winter matsuri festival. Local men carry the mikoshi portable shrine into the ocean after firing themselves up with sake, then bring the mikoshi back to the shrine.  This ritual is most famously celebrated in Enoshima, near Kamakura, which draws thousands of spectators to the beach to participate in and watch the fundoshi loincloth men carry the mikoshi into the ocean, and back again.  It is a form of ritual cleansing and a way to brace onself for the new year.
    enoshima-matsuri-10.jpg
  • The Festival of the Phallus or Kanamara Matsuri is a Shinto fertility festival held in Kawasaki at Kanamara Shrine. The phallus forms the central theme of the event that is reflected everywhere: decorations, candy, and even sake bottles.  The grand finale is a huge parade going through the streets with penis floats. The festival is centered around Kanamra shrine, once popular among prostitutes who wished to pray for protection against diseases and other sexual problems.
    kanamara-shrine-4.jpg
  • Kanamara Matsuri or Festival of the Phallus is an annual Shinto fertility festival held in Kawasaki in spring. The penis forms the central theme of the event that is reflected everywhere: candy, carved vegetables, decorations, sake bottles and a parade. The Kanamara Matsuri is centered around a local penis venerating shrine once popular among prostitutes who wished to pray for protection against sexual problems and diseases.
    kanamara-shrine-2.jpg
  • On your mark, get set, now SCREAM!  Nakizumo is a 400 year old event that appears to be based on the proverb “crying babies grow faster”.   Babies less than 1 year old are brought to the shrine, flung into the air, screamed and made faces at by sumo wrestlers and Shinto priests (or gyoji sumo referees) usually two at a time.  Whichever baby screams first or loudest is declared the winner, though there is no real prize. At first this ritual may appear to be cruel, making babies cry, but it is all in good fun at least for the adults.  It is also believed that the ceremony, which involves purification before the crying part, will enable babies to grow up stronger and healthier, so it’s all for the best.  The screaming sobs are also supposed to ward off evil spirits.   For good measure, both babies are hoisted high into the air by the wrestlers so that their screams will be closer to heaven, which will intensify the blessing.
    nakizumo-14.jpg
  • On your mark, get set, now SCREAM!  Nakizumo is a 400 year old event that appears to be based on the proverb “crying babies grow faster”.   Babies less than 1 year old are brought to the shrine, flung into the air, screamed and made faces at by sumo wrestlers and Shinto priests (or gyoji sumo referees) usually two at a time.  Whichever baby screams first or loudest is declared the winner, though there is no real prize. At first this ritual may appear to be cruel, making babies cry, but it is all in good fun at least for the adults.  It is also believed that the ceremony, which involves purification before the crying part, will enable babies to grow up stronger and healthier, so it’s all for the best.  The screaming sobs are also supposed to ward off evil spirits.   For good measure, both babies are hoisted high into the air by the wrestlers so that their screams will be closer to heaven, which will intensify the blessing.
    nakizumo-5.jpg
  • On your mark, get set, now SCREAM!  Nakizumo is a 400 year old event that appears to be based on the proverb “crying babies grow faster”.   Babies less than 1 year old are brought to the shrine, flung into the air, screamed and made faces at by sumo wrestlers and Shinto priests (or gyoji sumo referees) usually two at a time.  Whichever baby screams first or loudest is declared the winner, though there is no real prize. At first this ritual may appear to be cruel, making babies cry, but it is all in good fun at least for the adults.  It is also believed that the ceremony, which involves purification before the crying part, will enable babies to grow up stronger and healthier, so it’s all for the best.  The screaming sobs are also supposed to ward off evil spirits.   For good measure, both babies are hoisted high into the air by the wrestlers so that their screams will be closer to heaven, which will intensify the blessing.
    nakizumo-6.jpg
  • Oni Demon at Mengake Procession Kamakura- Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival held in September a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing comical or grotesque masks that signify different demons, legends and dieties  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-kamakura-27.jpg
  • Midwife at Mengake Kamakura - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival held in September a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing comical or grotesque masks that signify different demons, legends and dieties  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-kamakura-16.jpg
  • Midwife at Mengake Kamakura - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival held in September a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing comical or grotesque masks that signify different demons, legends and dieties  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-kamakura-23.jpg
  • Karasu Tengu Crow Goblin at Mengake Kamakura - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival held in September a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing comical or grotesque masks that signify different demons, legends and dieties  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-kamakura-18.jpg
  • Mengake Mask Procession - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing grotesque or comical masks  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-1.jpg
  • Mengake Mask Procession - Mengake or Masked Parade at Goryo Jinja shrine.  At this festival a group of ten people take part in this annual ritual: 8 men and 2 women. Wearing grotesque or comical masks  leave the shrine and parade through the nearby streets accompanied by portable shrine and festival music.
    mengake-9.jpg
  • Ride 'em cowboy!  Posing for the camera at one of the giant penises at the annual Kanamara Shrine Matsuri in Kawasaki, Japan. Originally, Kanamara Shrine was a place for couples to pray for fertility so as to have a baby or for prostitutes to ward off diseases as it is today. The annual festival has become, however, a bit of a circus for its novelty.
    kanamara-shrine-1.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-30.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-19.jpg
  • Oiso Sagicho Bonfire - Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-46.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-38.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-08.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-31.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-18.jpg
  • Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-15.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-19.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-14.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-08.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-13.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night.  Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-2.jpg
  • The Tanabata Festival celebrates the meeting of Vega and Altair as "star crossed lovers". Sometimes this is called the Star Tanabata. The Milky Way separates these lovers, and they are allowed to meet only once a year on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month of the lunar calendar. Since the stars come out at night, the celebration is held at night. Hiratsuka, Kanagawa-ken, is one of the most elaborate spectacles of the special lanterns that decorate the event.
    tanabata-27.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-28.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    hikiyama-02.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-24.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-31.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-21.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-19.jpg
  • The unique feature of the Hikiyama Festival is that performances of kabuki are performed by children, a rarity in Japan.  There are 12 kabuki floats called hikiyama with a kabuki stage.  Groups of kabuki floats appear in Nagahama’s main festival each year.  Yet the performances are usually excellent with the usual Japanese sense of care, professionalism, and putting  a huge community and group effort into the productions.  Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri was inscribed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the 33 Yama Hoo and Yatai Float Festivals in Japan.
    childrens-kabuki-12.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-7.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-3.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-5.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-4.jpg
  • Neputa Mura  or Neputa Village is a museum devoted to the Neputa Matsuri, Hirosaki’s main event and also introduces the city's other cultural specialties.  The Neputa Matsuri takes place annually from August 1 to 7 around the same time when Neputa and Nebuta festivals are held all over Aomori Prefecture. It features floats with large painted screens that depict beautiful women, mythological warriors and other themes, and are illuminated from within when paraded through the streets. A few of these floats are on display here.  Although the main focus of the Neputa Mura is on the Neputa Festival,Hirosaki's other specialties on display devoted to shamisen, and popular local handicrafts. There is also a Japanese garden and a teahouse from the 19th century.
    neputa-2.jpg
  • Oiso Sagicho Saito Dharma - Every year in mid January, a  festival is held at Oiso Beach called Sagicho. Originally, local fishermen organized this event and tradition.  Sagicho has been observed for over 400 years and has been designated as Japan’s national intangible treasures or officially Significant Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.  The Oiso no Sagicho is a Dosojin or a travelers' guardian deity fire matsuri.  Used shinto Japanese New Year decorations are turned into burnable artistic looking cones on the beach, and when the sun goes down, the bonfires are lit. Many local children participate by roasting dango, small glutinous rice cakes. Dango is eaten with the hopes of good health for the upcoming year.  From each group gathered around its respective bonfire, several men wear traditional loincloths and plunge into the frigid ocean. Straw cone shaped structures called Saito are built on the beach using pine, bamboo and New Year decorations.  These are turned into bonfires and provide some warmth for the participants and spectators.  This event is held during Koshogatsu, or Little New Year, the 15th of January.  Usually New Year decorations are taken down and burnt at the local Shinto shrine though Oiso is famous for burning them on the beach, with additional rituals associated with Koshogatsu.
    sagicho-35.jpg
  • Until the Edo period Japanese fundoshi loincloths were almost universally used as underwear by Japanese men.  By the end of WWII and increased westernization, fundoshi were common among most Japanese men.  During the postwar occupation of Japanese, foreigners were surprised that men walked around town revealing their bottoms. Laws were enacted, prior to the 1964 Tokyo Olympics regulating nakedness in public places.  As a result began to believe that the fundoshi loincloth was a vulgar thing to wear, even as underpants. Modern Japanese have come to  tend to think that the fundoshi loincloth, is a embarrassing item.  People generally have the image of the fundoshi as old, conservative or generally uncool, and only suitable for wearing at summer festivals.  Even though fundoshi are used by sumo wrestlers, and are common even today during festivals, they are mostly popular only with Japanese gays of a certain type.  However, some people value fundoshi as cool, healthy and comfortable underwear.  There are a few types of fundoshi.  The most common is called rokushaku, which literally means “six shaku” or 180 cm. There are also etchu, kuroneko and mokko styles.  Fundoshi are normally made of cotton, though linen or silk crepe is also used.
    fundoshi-09.jpg
  • Kanamara Matsuri, Festival of the Phallus, Fire Ceremony - Kanamara Matsuri or Festival of the Phallus is an annual Shinto fertility festival held in Kawasaki in spring. The penis forms the central theme of the event that is reflected everywhere: candy, carved vegetables, decorations, sake bottles and a parade. The Kanamara Matsuri is centered around a local penis venerating shrine once popular among prostitutes who wished to pray for protection against sexual problems and diseases.
    shinto-ceremony-3.jpg
  • During the Edo period when Japan was closed to all foreigners that most of the beautiful Japanese kites we know today were developed. There are about a hundred different styles and types of kites, each region having its own unique shape. They are normally decorated with characters from Japanese folklore, mythology or have some religious or symbolic meaning. Traditionally kites are flown on boy's day May 5th.  At Harvest Festival kites are flown with stalks of rice attached as a symbolic offering of thanks for a good crop. Others are decorated with the face of a demon and would act as a talisman against evil.
    japanese-kite.jpg
  • There are about a hundred different styles and types of Japanese kites, each region having its own unique shape. They are normally decorated with characters from Japanese folklore, mythology or have some religious or symbolic meaning. Traditionally kites are flown on boy's day May 5th. At Harvest Festival kites are flown with stalks of rice attached as a symbolic offering of thanks for a good crop. Others are decorated with the face of a demon and would act as a talisman against evil.
    giant-kite-festival-2.jpg
  • There are about a hundred different styles and types of Japanese kites, each region having its own unique shape. They are normally decorated with characters from Japanese folklore, mythology or have some religious or symbolic meaning. Traditionally kites are flown on boy's day May 5th. At Harvest Festival kites are flown with stalks of rice attached as a symbolic offering of thanks for a good crop. Others are decorated with the face of a demon and would act as a talisman against evil.
    giant-kite-festival-3.jpg
  • Families with boys hang colorful carp kites, called Koinobori, outside their houses - one for each boy, with the biggest representing the oldest boy at the top. The kites flutter in the wind and look beautiful, as you can see in the photo above! In Japanese culture, the carp (or koi) represents courage and perseverance, as the fish is known for its strength and determination as it swims against the current upstream. The carp kite symbolises each family's wish for their sons to grow up brave and strong.
    carps-banners-1.jpg
  • Families with boys hang colorful carp kites, called Koinobori, outside their houses - one for each boy, with the biggest representing the oldest boy at the top. The kites flutter in the wind and look beautiful, as you can see in the photo above! In Japanese culture, the carp (or koi) represents courage and perseverance, as the fish is known for its strength and determination as it swims against the current upstream. The carp kite symbolises each family's wish for their sons to grow up brave and strong.
    Koinobori-carp-banners-2.jpg
  • Families with boys hang colorful carp kites, called Koinobori, outside their houses - one for each boy, with the biggest representing the oldest boy at the top. The kites flutter in the wind and look beautiful, as you can see in the photo above! In Japanese culture, the carp (or koi) represents courage and perseverance, as the fish is known for its strength and determination as it swims against the current upstream. The carp kite symbolises each family's wish for their sons to grow up brave and strong.
    Koinobori-carp-banners-1.jpg
  • Families with boys hang colorful carp kites, called Koinobori, outside their houses - one for each boy, with the biggest representing the oldest boy at the top. The kites flutter in the wind and look beautiful, as you can see in the photo above! In Japanese culture, the carp (or koi) represents courage and perseverance, as the fish is known for its strength and determination as it swims against the current upstream. The carp kite symbolises each family's wish for their sons to grow up brave and strong.
    Koinobori-carp-banners-3.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Parade- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-06.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Parade- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-03.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Parade- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-08.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Parade- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-07.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Event- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-04.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Event- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-01.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Firefighter Parade- Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts. Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.  Dezome-shiki events, parades, and performances are held round Japan, usually to keep people mindful of the devastation of fires.  Prior to parades, events, performances there are requisite ceremonies with long-winded speeches by the Mayor and Fire Chief at each event, although most of the attendees are there only for the parade and acrobatic stunts.
    edo-firefighters-parade-02.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Edo Firefighter Parade - Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts.  The ladder was an indispensable fire-fighting tool in the Edo Period because the main method back then was to tear down the surrounding buildings to prevent fire from spreading, so there was a need to climb up onto roofs.  Extreme agility and the ability to be nimble was required.   Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.
    dezome-shiki-01.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Edo Firefighter Stunts - Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts.  The ladder was an indispensable fire-fighting tool in the Edo Period because the main method back then was to tear down the surrounding buildings to prevent fire from spreading, so there was a need to climb up onto roofs.  Extreme agility and the ability to be nimble was required.   Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.
    edo-firefighters-11.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Edo Firefighter Stunts - Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts.  The ladder was an indispensable fire-fighting tool in the Edo Period because the main method back then was to tear down the surrounding buildings to prevent fire from spreading, so there was a need to climb up onto roofs.  Extreme agility and the ability to be nimble was required.   Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.
    edo-firefighters-12.jpg
  • Dezome-shiki Edo Firefighter Stunts - Dezome-shiki is an annual event that takes place early January each year, normally sponsored by local firefighter stations.  Its purpose is to both warm residents of the dangers of fire, but it is also meant to entertain as well.  The highlight of these events are through the firemen’s acrobatic stunts on top of tall bamboo ladders. Similar events are held throughout Japan, in which men dressed as firemen of the Edo Period perform acrobatic stunts.  The ladder was an indispensable fire-fighting tool in the Edo Period because the main method back then was to tear down the surrounding buildings to prevent fire from spreading, so there was a need to climb up onto roofs.  Extreme agility and the ability to be nimble was required.   Huge fires have burned  down Tokyo and other cities numerous times, as many homes are built of wood and are crowded together causing fires to spread easily.
    edo-firefighters-07.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    firemen-mascots-02.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    firemen-mascots-01.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-31.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-30.jpg
  • Obuse Nagano Mascot -   Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-16.jpg
  • Mascot Wedding Bride - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-15.jpg
  • Botan Mascot -Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-14.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-13.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-11.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-9.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-7.jpg
  • Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    yuru-kyara-2.jpg
  • Mascot Wedding Bride -  Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-56.jpg
  • Yuki Maru Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-53.jpg
  • Botan Mascot -Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-50.jpg
  • Mascot Wedding Bride - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-37.jpg
  • Botan Mascot -Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-29.jpg
  • Black Bancho Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze.  Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-20.jpg
  • Yahatainu Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-16.jpg
  • Imabari Baryis Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-14.jpg
  • Michan Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-57.jpg
  • Imabari Baryis Mascot - Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-55.jpg
  • Obuse Nagano Mascot -  Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-47.jpg
  • Peruring Perry Shimoda Mascot -  Japanese celebrate the silly, eccentric and adorable like no other country.  Its obsession with the yuru-kyara mascots is a perfect example of this.  These mascots represent products, teams, museums, schools, prisons, branches of the military, organizations  and even the national tax office.   Most towns, counties, and companies have their own yuru-kyara mascot, following this craze. Creepy or cute, they lurk around street fairs, community events, train stations and tourist destinations.  There are large Mascot Summits such as the one in Hanyu, Saitama held every year where mascots campaign and are voted on.  Mascots normally represent local culture or products. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed lovable characters at promotional events and festivals meant to convey affection for one’s hometown or region.
    japanese-mascots-35.jpg
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