Yayoi Matsuri is an annual festival celebrated in Nikko, a city located in Tochigi Prefecture in Japan. During this festival, the local deity, Futarasan, is celebrated.
The Origin and Significance of the Yayoi Matsuri Festival
Yayoi Matsuri takes its name from the lunar month of Yayoi. This corresponds to the end of March and the beginning of April. This festival has been celebrated since the Edo era (1603-1868). In addition, it is one of the most important cultural events in the region.
Yayoi Matsuri is celebrated to pay homage to Futarasan. In short, it is a Shinto deity that has been worshiped for centuries in Nikko. This divinity is associated with the sacred mountain of Nikko. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Shinto believers.
Program of the Festival
Yayoi Matsuri is celebrated over two days, April 13 and 14. The festival is marked by a procession of decorated floats called “dashi”. Teams of young men in traditional costumes carry these floats through the city.
Patterns and bright colors adorn the floats. And some of them carry drums and bells that are used during the procession. Furthermore, the procession ends at the five-story Nikko Pagoda, where the floats are displayed for visitors to admire.
In addition to the float procession, Yayoi Matsuri is also marked by dances and traditional music performances. Visitors can also participate in games and activities organized for the occasion.
Thus, the festival attracts thousands of visitors every year. Including foreign tourists who come to discover the culture and traditions of Japan. If you plan to visit Japan in spring, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in Yayoi Matsuri in Nikko and discover the charms of this historic and cultural city.
