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  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and molded into shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki. While also eaten all year round, mochi is a traditional food for the Japanese New Year and is commonly sold and eaten during that time.
    mochi-cakes-image.jpg
  • Mochi Rice Cakes at Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival- Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-09.jpg
  • Matcha Tea, a special form of green tea served with Rice Cakes. Macha is the type of tea served at tea ceremony which centers on the preparation, serving, and drinking of matcha.
    matcha-tea-01.jpg
  • Dango Mochi Rice Cakes - Dango is a Japanese dumpling made from mochiko or rice flour, related to mochi. It is often served with green tea. Dango are eaten year round, but the different varieties are traditionally eaten in given seasons. Three to four dango are often served on a skewer called dango mochi or mitarashi dango.
    dango-mochi.jpg
  • Manju is a popular traditional Japanese confection. There are many varieties but most have an outside made from flour, rice powder and buckwheat with a filling of red bean paste, made from boiled azuki beans and sugar.
    manju-1.jpg
  • Manju, a special type of Japanese confectionary filled with sweet bean paste and steamed. Manju are typically eaten as a snack.
    manju-2.jpg
  • Dango Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    dango-mochi-2.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    mochi-5.jpg
  • Making Mochi Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and molded into shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki. While also eaten all year round, mochi is a traditional food for the Japanese New Year and is commonly sold and eaten during that time.
    new-years-mochi-2.jpg
  • Japanese Mochi is a rice cake made of  rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape - in this case covered with a leaf for freshness. Many types of Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi: daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    mochi-1.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    mochi-2.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    mochi-4.jpg
  • Making Mochi Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and molded into shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki. While also eaten all year round, mochi is a traditional food for the Japanese New Year and is commonly sold and eaten during that time.
    new-years-mochi-1.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    mochi-3.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and molded into shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki. While also eaten all year round, mochi is a traditional food for the Japanese New Year and is commonly sold and eaten during that time.
    mochi-6.jpg
  • Dango Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into shape. Many types of traditional wagashi and mochigashi or Japanese traditional sweets are made with mochi. For example, daifuku is a soft round mochi stuffed with sweet filling such as bean paste.
    dango-mochi-1.jpg
  • Mochi is a Japanese ricecake made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and then molded into various shapes - in this case wrapped with leaves. Ordinarily these sweets are stuffed with bean paste filling.
    wrapped-mochi-1.jpg
  • Since ancient times, pounded rice cakes, mochi, have been offered to the gods as sacred food in Japan.   They have a central role in New Year's celebrations.  Two or more round rice cakes stacked one on top of the other are placed in the Shinto altar or in the tokonoma alcove during O-Shogatsu are called kagami-mochi.  The two rice cakes, one smaller than the other, represent the sun and the moon, yin and yang, or marital bliss. In the old days, these cakes would be made by each family, but now they can be bought at supermarkets and department stores.
    kagami-mochi-1.jpg
  • Since ancient times, pounded rice cakes, mochi, have been offered to the gods as sacred food in Japan.   They have a central role in New Year's celebrations.  Two or more round rice cakes stacked one on top of the other are placed in the Shinto altar or in the tokonoma alcove during O-Shogatsu are called kagami-mochi.  The two rice cakes, one smaller than the other, represent the sun and the moon, yin and yang, or marital bliss. In the old days, these cakes would be made by each family, but now they can be bought at supermarkets and department stores.
    kagami-mochi-2.jpg
  • Amazake Chaya is the last remaining teahouse on the Old Tokaido Road. The roof is thatched and the floor packed earth.  The interior is dark, and the brightest light in the room comes from glowing embers in the fireplace. <br />
Mochi rice cakes are available here, grilled over coals as well as sweet amazake, a fermented rice drink and the house speciality as it has always been on the menu as an outpost of the Tokaido Road.
    amazake-chaya-3.jpg
  • Amazake Chaya is the last remaining teahouse on the Old Tokaido Road. The roof is thatched and the floor packed earth.  The interior is dark, and the brightest light in the room comes from glowing embers in the fireplace. <br />
Mochi rice cakes are available here, grilled over coals as well as sweet amazake, a fermented rice drink and the house speciality as it has always been on the menu as an outpost of the Tokaido Road.
    amazake-chaya-4.jpg
  • Amazake Chaya is the last remaining teahouse on the Old Tokaido Road. The roof is thatched and the floor packed earth.  The interior is dark, and the brightest light in the room comes from glowing embers in the fireplace. <br />
Mochi rice cakes are available here, grilled over coals as well as sweet amazake, a fermented rice drink and the house speciality as it has always been on the menu as an outpost of the Tokaido Road.
    amazake-chaya-2.jpg
  • Amazake Chaya is the last remaining teahouse on the Old Tokaido Road. The roof is thatched and the floor packed earth.  The interior is dark, and the brightest light in the room comes from glowing embers in the fireplace. <br />
Mochi rice cakes are available here, grilled over coals as well as sweet amazake, a fermented rice drink and the house speciality as it has always been on the menu as an outpost of the Tokaido Road.
    amazake-chaya-1.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-18.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-13.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-11.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-05.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-16.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-15.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-10.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-08.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-39.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
  • 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
  • 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-34.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-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
  • 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-17.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
  • 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-14.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-13.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-12.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-10.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-09.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-04.jpg
  • Yanna Gokko Karimiya at Oiso Sagicho - 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-03.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-02.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-01.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-20.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-22.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-21.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-17.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-19.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-14.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-11.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-05.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-07.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-04.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-40.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-33.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-32.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-16.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-06.jpg
  • Robotayaki is a sort of Japanese barbeque.  In restaurants specializing in robotayaki, patrons gather around a grill or fire pit for skewers of grilled meats, fish, vegetables and even crunchy rice cakes.
    robotayaki-1.jpg
  • Akutai Matsuri - Cursing Festival - Japan celebrates the annual Akutai Matsuri on Mt. Atago’s peak in Ibaraki. The festival is known as “The Cursing Festival” celebrated during the third Sunday of December, where anyone is free to cuss, shout, and curse.  It is worth mentioning that the Japanese language is not very prolific in curse words, about the worst is the Japanese word for fool or "baka".   Visitors note that this festival is rather light-hearted with the cursing mostly in jest, but even so most find this festival cathartic as way of expressing oneself in public.  Akutai translates as "abusive language" though die-hard fans of the profane will not hear any "four letter words" here.  The event finishes up at Atago Shrine with a scattering of rice cakes distributed by shinto priests.
    akutai-12.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-07.jpg