Whether low-key or nationally lauded, Japanese festivals are always a lot of fun — events where one can enjoy a variety of sights and sounds as well as fill up on a dazzling array of food and drink.
However, arguably more interesting are the actual people participating; a fascinating array of faces that suggest something, and yet at the same time nothing, about their owners.
All the time begging the question: Are these really the same suited and staid salaried workers that come Monday morning will be crammed into a carriage like millions of other commuters? Or alternatively, do they include the likes of Mr and Mrs Sato who run the little restaurant down the road, or maybe Baba-san the local builder?
But whatever work they do, or regardless of what kind of lives they lead, come festival time the whole lot is left behind.
And instead, amidst the din of the drums:
It’s time for geniality.
Joy.
Jubilation.
And sometimes just jolliness.
Plus, for those who have seen it so many times before, it’s a chance, for most of them at least,
to enjoy a much more leisurely experience.
One that involves noticeably more looking,
than lifting.
But, in no time at all, it’s over, with nothing left to do but savour the last of the sounds,
then walk back to wherever it is they come from, and whatever it is they do.
brixter says
I thought they do it at night with fireworks? Maybe this is just a prelude.
Lee says
No, not usually brixter. Many festivals like this are only daytime affairs.
Mark says
Hey Lee – you got about half a dozen of my pals in there. Nice work!
Lee says
Cheers Mark! Happy to hear I captured some of your pals. I just hope I did them justice.
[Gm] says
Love to see lots of smile in there, Lee.
I especially love the last photo and the guy with orange glasses. It looks good with the orange towel.
Lee says
Thanks!
Yes, it was a very joyous occasion and no mistake. I liked the towel and glasses combination too. Not too often you see those colour co-ordinated!
El-Branden Brazil says
That first shot is an absolute belter!
Lee says
Cheers Branden!
Maria says
How’s the immigration laws in Japan?Seriously..!
“Are these really the same suited and staid salaried workers that come Monday morning will be crammed into a carriage like millions of other commuters? “.
There are similarities between English and Japanese I think.
At least the way I see it.Of course you know better!
Lee says
With a job/degree, not that difficult really.
That’s true, I guess there are some similarities there. I’m probably just too close (on both sides) to see it!
Lizzy says
Brightened my day with so many smilng faces. 🙂 Thanks, Lee.
Lee says
You are welcome Lizzy. Happy to hear it.
Eme & Mimi says
Hello!
We love your pictures, are really a great way to hava an aproach to Japanese Culture.
^^
Lee says
Thanks!
Brandi Belle says
The last two guys were very amusing! Keep up posting those interesting photos!
AdelaideBen says
Just came along (thanks Muza-chan), and had a look. Great post and great web-site. Love the camera work and great set up… love the pacing and, at the end of the day, the story.
Well done – and looking forward to reading thru your blogs.
Lee says
Thanks a lot for the positive words Ben. Very kind of you to say so.
Bruce teede says
I lived in kunitaci in 1976 when I was 7 and participated on this festival. What a cultural experience and great memory.
Lee says
Wow, that’s quite a while ago. Kunitachi has changed quite a bit since I’ve been here (the old station has now sadly gone), so I can only imagine the changes that have taken place since 1976.