inkyami: Gion Matsuri Unlike my previous project on slavic mythology, here I’m researching and
inkyami:Gion MatsuriUnlike my previous project on slavic mythology, here I’m researching and illustrating the culture to which I do not belong. Therefore, despite checking various sources, I cannot be 100% sure of not making any cultural mistakes either in a discriptions or illustrations. If there are any — please, let me know!)The history of Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) is almost as ancient as the history of Kyoto itself. In the medieval times the city has often been plagued with various epidemics. To please the gods and the local spirits, in 869 it was decided to hold a ceremonial parade, depicting 66 stylized halberds to represent each province. Apparently, spirits seemed to like the performance, as it was from now on held in cases of all Kyoto’s misfortunes. It was purely a religious ceremony at first, but, as the time came by, various performances, music numbers and dances were added to the procession. The festivities escalated, and by the time of 14th century stylized halberds have been transformed into unbelievably enormous and luxurious float-like constructions, and the procession itself has been turned into the month-long festival.The modern-day Gion Matsuri no longer counts 66 floats, though by the number of participants and onlookers it is one of the biggest celebrations in Japan. The festival is held an entire month, all the events are dated, and the most famous and spectacular happen on 16–18 of July, including Yamaboko Junkō (float parade). The festival itself has become an inspiration for many celebrations throughout the country. -- source link
#japanese culture#kyoto