Full details, schedules, transportation: discoverJapan.Info
Drums being played in front of a fire with a flame taller than 5 meters next to the river after it was blessed by a priest. A ritual I thought I could only see in movies is the highlight of the Genryu festival.
A few hours away from Tokyo, but not easy to reach, limited information in English and confusing train/bus schedules require some level of japanese to be able to read the signs or ask for directions. However this is a highly enjoyable trip surounded by great views and traditional country side architectures and people.
This is a day long festival loaded with multiple events and performances. The city of Genryu is know for its fish and wasabi which is sold at the event by many food stalls during the performances. However, the highlight of the day starts around 6:00 pm with a taiko performance (Japanese drums) as the start lighting torches. After praying and thanking the gods for clean water and fire, they proceed to burn 3 pine tree shape piles of straw while the drums continue to play. The ritual ends with a display of fireworks.
10 сен 2024
