A Couple of Small Festivals.

I went to a small festival in town on August 24th. There was a taiko performance. Taiko refers to the large drums as well as to the name of the drumming ensemble.

Long ago they were used in war to motivate soldiers, but now they are used to entertain or add drama to events and performances.  They can be very loud, but are so much fun to watch. Here is a video that I didn't take of a group with younger children in it! They are fantastic!  It is a bit long but they look like they are having an awesome time.

 

 I went to another festival yesterday! There are many in August. This was at shine in Shigaraki. They are doing a local dance. Each dance is distinct to the area. Children learn it in school and everyone, young and old dance it at festivals.

I also love the paper lanterns! They are beautiful and are used at festivals, ceremonies, and even outside businesses to draw attention to goods.They are also hung at shrines and provide a wonderful warm light. Some are made of bamboo and paper while others are made with wire and paper. Now, most are electric but they used to have candles or flames in them. There are also floating water lanterns, used at certain festivals, and sky lanterns, which act as mini hot air balloons! I do not have pictures of the sky or floating lanters yet, but I hope to go to more festivals and see them soon!

OH NO!!!

A Standing Wooden Lantern

NINJA LANTERNS!