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  • 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-06.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-03.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-07.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-13.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
  • 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-12.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-11.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-02.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-14 (1).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-08.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-01.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-05.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-04.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-10.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.
    Koshogatsu-20.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-14.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-22.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-25.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-08.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-27.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-24.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-13.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-13.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-3.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-26.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-11.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-04.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-15.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-23.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-20.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-06.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-29.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-21.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-19.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-15.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-02.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-8.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-7.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-30.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-16.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
  • 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-03.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-24.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-17.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-09.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-05.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-01.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-14.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-28.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-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.
    enoshima-matsuri-12.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-07.jpg
  • Igorot Belt & Loincloth - Igorot is the collective name of several ethnic groups in the Philippines Cordilleras. These tribes inhabit the mountainouse provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao provinces. They also ever-present in Baguio and its surrounding areas. The term Ifugao means "mountain people" though individual tribes prefer to be referred to by their respective names.
    igorot-3.jpg
  • Japanese tattoos have a long tradition and each tattoo has a meaning.  Tattoos show a person’s status in society, though these days that status is usually not so good.  The interesting thing about Japanese Tattoos is they are both clandestine and artistic at the same time.  Some people have tattoos as a protective charm or as a symbol of devotion.  What makes them unique is the combination of many features in the overall design.  The dragon is perceived as a powerful force - unlike in western cultures where a dragon is considered to be a terrifying creature.  Tatoos also convey personal beliefs, character traits or aspirations.  The symbol of a peony is a sign of wealth, elegance and prosperity.  The rose is the king of flowers and a sign of strong character.  These days tattoos are usually only worn by yakuza gangsters and are frowned upon in society - so much so that bathers with tattoos are usually banned from entry.  Whether that makes them more fascinating or not, is up to the beholder.
    japanese-tattoo-08.jpg
  • Japanese tattoos have a long tradition and each tattoo has a meaning.  Tattoos show a person’s status in society, though these days that status is usually not so good.  The interesting thing about Japanese Tattoos is they are both clandestine and artistic at the same time.  Some people have tattoos as a protective charm or as a symbol of devotion.  What makes them unique is the combination of many features in the overall design.  The dragon is perceived as a powerful force - unlike in western cultures where a dragon is considered to be a terrifying creature.  Tatoos also convey personal beliefs, character traits or aspirations.  The symbol of a peony is a sign of wealth, elegance and prosperity.  The rose is the king of flowers and a sign of strong character.  These days tattoos are usually only worn by yakuza gangsters and are frowned upon in society - so much so that bathers with tattoos are usually banned from entry.  Whether that makes them more fascinating or not, is up to the beholder.
    japanese-tattoo-07.jpg
  • Japanese tattoos have a long tradition and each tattoo has a meaning.  Tattoos show a person’s status in society, though these days that status is usually not so good.  The interesting thing about Japanese Tattoos is they are both clandestine and artistic at the same time.  Some people have tattoos as a protective charm or as a symbol of devotion.  What makes them unique is the combination of many features in the overall design.  The dragon is perceived as a powerful force - unlike in western cultures where a dragon is considered to be a terrifying creature.  Tatoos also convey personal beliefs, character traits or aspirations.  The symbol of a peony is a sign of wealth, elegance and prosperity.  The rose is the king of flowers and a sign of strong character.  These days tattoos are usually only worn by yakuza gangsters and are frowned upon in society - so much so that bathers with tattoos are usually banned from entry.  Whether that makes them more fascinating or not, is up to the beholder.
    japanese-tattoo-01.jpg
  • Igorot is the collective name of several Austronesian ethnic groups in The Philippines from the Cordillera Administrative Region of Luzon. They inhabit the six provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao, and Mountain Province as well as Baguio City and its surrounding area. The term Ifugao or Ipugao which means "mountain people" are used more frequently within the Igorots themselves as igorot is viewed by some as slightly pejorative.
    igorot-2.jpg
  • Igorot is the collective term for a native ethnic group in the Philippines from the Cordilleras Mountains. The term Ifugao or Ipugao means "mountain people".
    igorot-1.jpg
  • Igorot is the collective name of several Austronesian ethnic groups in The Philippines from the Cordillera Administrative Region of Luzon. They inhabit the six provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Kalinga, Ifugao, and Mountain Province as well as Baguio City and its surrounding area. The term Ifugao or Ipugao which means "mountain people" are used more frequently within the Igorots themselves as igorot is viewed by some as slightly pejorative.
    igorot-4.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-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-12.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-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-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
  • 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-06.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
  • 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-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-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-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-07.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
  • 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-38.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
  • Mikoshi and Loincloths at Kamakura Matsuri - Japanese festivals are traditional festive occasions. Some festivals have their roots in Chinese festivals but have undergone dramatic changes as they mixed with local customs.  Matsuri is the Japanese word for a festival or holiday. In Japan, festivals are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple, though they can be secular.<br />
There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan; dates vary from area to area, and even within a specific area, but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon. Almost every locale has at least one matsuri in late summer or autumn, usually related to the harvests. Matsuri almost always feature processions which include elaborate floats and "mikoshi" or portable shrines which are paraded around the neighborhood, and sometimes even into the ocean along the coast.
    kamakura-matsuri-3.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-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-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-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-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-01.jpg