What is
Matsuri?
Matsuri (祭り) is a Japanese word that means “festival” and is usually referred to as a festival to honor and give thanks to Gods called “Kami (神),” which are the deities in the traditional Japanese religion of Shinto (神道). Something that is very commonly seen at Matsuri are palanquins called Mikoshi (神輿). The Mikoshi start their journey at a local shrine and are then carried around town by the townspeople. It is said that the Kami from the shrine rides on the Mikoshi, purifying the town and dispelling evil on its journey. This tradition of carrying the Mikoshi around town started in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), and is one of many that you’ll see at Matsuris today.
a brief history...
Although originally starting off as a mainly Shintou religious festival, Matsuri has evolved and more emphasis is placed on the festivities and traditions rather than focusing on the reasons behind them. Happening all year round, originally each Matsuri was meant to ask for blessings from the gods.
Spring Matsuri were meant to pray for a good harvest and ensure the health of the crops. Summer Matsuri were meant to ask for protection from typhoons and swarms of insects. Fall Matsuri were meant for people to give thanks to the Kami for bountiful harvests. Finally, winter Matsuri was the time when people would ask for favorable farming conditions in the new year.
In modern day, the focus of Matsuri has shifted more towards performances, entertainment, and food. Yet, despite the declining correlation in Shinto Buddhism tied to these festivals, Shinto influence is still very evident during Matsuri.