SANJA Matsuri is one of Tokyo’s most famous and lively festivals, taking place on the third weekend of every May at Asakusa’s Kannon Shrine, Sensō-ji. It is a festival that attracts millions of visitors from all over Japan and the world to enjoy the traditional music, dances, float parades and festive atmosphere.
History and Origins of SANJA Matsuri
SANJA Matsuri, also known as Sanja-sama festival, is a religious festival dedicated to the three founders who founded the Sensō-ji: Hinokuma Hamanari, Hinokuma Takenari and Hajino Nakatomo, considered as the protectors of the Asakusa area. 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 construction of the temple, as well as to honor local deities and the residents of the area. Over the years, the festival has become increasingly popular, attracting visitors from all over the country and even from abroad. Every year, millions of visitors from all over Japan and the world flock to the SANJA Matsuri. During the three days of festivities, crowds of up to 1.5 to 2 million people gather to participate in the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the event.
How the festival unfolds
The festival officially begins on Friday with a ceremony called Daigyoretsu, which marks the start of the festivities. This procession is followed by a series of traditional dances and songs, as well as parades of decorated floats, called mikoshi. The mikoshi are carried by groups of people, who carry them through the narrow streets of the Asakusa district.
The highlight of the festival is on Sunday, the day of SANJA Matsuri, when thousands of people gather to watch the main procession. The three mikoshi carrying the deities are carried through the streets, accompanied by musicians playing traditional drums and flutes. The streets are filled with food, drink and souvenir stalls, and the atmosphere is both festive and spiritual.
The SANJA Matsuri is an event that attracts large and enthusiastic crowds, and it is recommended to arrive early to get a good spot to see the procession. It is also important to note that the crowds can be dense and it is recommended to take precautions to stay safe, such as avoiding carrying valuables and keeping a close eye on children.
