What is matsuri?

“Matsuri” is a general term for Japanese cultural festivals. Approximately, 100,000 to 300,000 matsuri festivals are taking place all around Japan. The original purpose of matsuri is to mainly thank deities for nature, good harvest and growth in the community, but it has been changed from time to time.

Also, there are no specific dates for matsuri festivals, and it depends on the region. However, they are typically held around traditional holidays such as obon (summer holidays to commemorate one’s ancestors) and setsubun (the celebration of new beginnings and the changing seasons). Some areas hold matsuri in early autumn to thank the gods for the harvest and to pray for an abundant crop for the following summer.

Introduction to mikoshi and dashi

Mikoshi and dashi are indispensable to matsuri festivals since both are made to transport the gods. Mikoshi is a portable miniature shrine that people carry on their shoulders and go around the neighborhood. While mikoshi carry the gods around the area, there is also a float called dashi with wheels attached, which is made to invite and accompany the gods throughout the festival. A dashi is usually larger than a mikoshi and weighs more than a ton. People living in the town reinforce camaraderie and a feeling of collaborative contribution by carrying these heavy objects around the town.

The Kanda Matsuri (Tokyo), Gion Matsuri (Kyoto) and Tenjin Matsuri (Fukuoka) are known as the three greatest matsuri festivals in Japan. The parades of mikoshi and dashi of all three festivals are well worth watching.

Why three different kanji are pronounced “matsuri”

祀(enshrining), 政(governing), 祭(festival): all of these kanji can be pronounced “matsuri” despite the difference in meaning. Firstly, the word “matsuri” was derived from “祀” (meaning enshrines and worships). According to “Kojiki (An Account of Ancient Matters),” the oldest written work in Japan, people from the mythical age would enshrine deities to ward off bad influences like plague and disaster.

Secondly, as Japan had strengthened its Shinto faith, the government would use rituals to rule the people of that time. That is why “政” is also pronounced “matsuri-goto,” even though its actual meaning is governing. Lastly, matsuri had finally become festivals for local people after the shogun military came to power. They even patronized some matsuri festivals to win the hearts and minds of people.

Matsuri to revitalize the local community

Although matsuri has changed its form and purpose throughout the eras, it has never failed to fascinate people. Today, the festivals play essential roles in sustaining local communities. One of these roles is to develop trust-based relationships through preparation for the festival. It is easier for people to seek out and offer help if they already have such a relationship.

Additionally, the young generation can deepen their understanding and rediscover the appeal of the local culture through the festival. With their help, the community can pass on its traditions to future generations. Most importantly, local people are proud of their matsuri festivals. Their spirit makes the festivals much more beautiful and meaningful.