Matsuri (祭) - Higashi Rinkan

東林間サマーわぁ！ニバル

          We are currently at the peak of festivals/matsuri in Japan. It's summer time, weather hitting the 35 C, humidity of 80% but this doesn't stop the Japanese from having a great time by showing their skills in traditional dances. You listen from miles away the chants and the sound of taiko (Japanese drum). Like if they were calling you. As you get closer, you realize something great is about to start.  You see people wearing traditional Japanese clothing, following the rhythm of the taiko. 

I had the opportunity to experience yet another beautiful festival. This time in Higashi Rinkan. There were different groups from different sectors in Sagamihara, showing us what they've been practicing for a long time.

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One famous group made appearance, Takara Bune

one of the most well-known Japanese traditional dances with a 400 years of history. They push the limits of this venerable traditional art: their signature dance style is so aggressive and vigorous that it has been characterized as ‘dance beyond Awa Odori’.

I taped a little bit of their demostration and it was fantastic. Their show is full of surprises, including not only dances but also talks, music, and theatrical plays. The sound of the taiko was beautiful. They say that the sound of taiko resonate into hearts and minds of the audience... well, it did! It was also a great to recover from a great, but painful evening. 

Here's a short clip of the matsuri:

I will be going to another one next Sunday, so stay tuned!

Have a great week.

Hector Quintanilla