The Sanja Matsuri Festival is one of the most famous and lively festivals in Tokyo. It takes place on the third weekend of each May at the Kannon Shrine in Asakusa, Sensō-ji. It is a festival that attracts millions of visitors from Japan and around the world. Visitors came to enjoy the traditional music, dances, float parades and festive atmosphere.
History and Origins of the Sanja Matsuri
Sanja Matsuri is also known as the Sanja-sama festival. It is a religious festival dedicated to the three founders who founded Sensō-ji: Hinokuma Hamanari, Hinokuma Takenari and Hajino Nakatomo. They are considered the protectors of the Asakusa region. The festival was established in the 17th century, when Senso-ji Temple was built in the area.
The festival was initially designed to celebrate the completion of the temple’s construction. As well as to honor local deities and local residents. Over the years, the festival has become more and more popular. It attracts visitors from all over the country and even abroad. Every year, millions of visitors flock to Sanja Matsuri from all over Japan and around the world. During the three days of festivities, a crowd, reaching between 1.5 and 2 million people, gathers to take part in the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the event.
Program of the festival
The festival officially begins on Friday, with a ceremony called Daigyoretsu, which marks the start of the festivities. A series of traditional dances and songs follows. As well as parades of decorated floats, called mikoshi. Groups of people carry mikoshi and carry them through the narrow streets of the Asakusa district.
The climax of the festival takes place on Sunday, the day of Sanja Matsuri. Indeed, thousands of people gather to watch the main procession. The three mikoshi carrying the deities are carried through the streets. Musicians playing traditional drums and flutes accompany them. Food, drink and souvenir stalls fill the streets. The atmosphere is both festive and spiritual.
Sanja Matsuri is an event that attracts large and enthusiastic crowds. And we recommend arriving early to get a good seat to see the procession. It is also important to note that crowds can be dense. We therefore recommend that you take precautions to stay safe. Avoid carrying valuable items and keep special attention on children.
