Contribution to Western understanding of the nature and manifestations of Shinto through the vast galaxy of historic festivals (matsuri) that are here categorized and analysed.
Contribution to Western understanding of the nature and manifestations of Shinto through the vast galaxy of historic festivals (matsuri) that are here categorized and analysed.
The spectacular Japanese community festivals known as matsuri are centuries old. Even today, in a society driven by technological advancement, these annual rites continue to function as a mechanism for purification and renewal and also to ensure all aspects of communal productivity. The pageantry of these events — their extraordinary dress, performance, and Shinto-Buddhist ritual enactment — brings communities together in an act of worship that is, as well, an extravagant artistic celebration. Dominated by the gorgeous textiles worn by troupes of participants, matsuri also boldly incorporate decorated banners, exquisitely "dressed" festival wagons, dramatic masks, and elaborate portable shrines. The historical importance of matsuri within the cycle of annual religious events in Japan is also reflected in the representation of these festivals in several pictorial forms, from lavish screen paintings to elegant woodblock prints. This volume identifies and describes the exuberant textiles and costumes of matsuri and considers their significance within their cultural context. Many of the examples illustrated date from the Meiji period (1868-1912), the last time when handwork was produced by individual artisans for their own use or that of their neighbors. The unique focus on festival arts in this book allows us to identify the special aesthetics that differentiate the textiles worn and used on Japan’s holy days. At matsuri a cascade of beautifully crafted garments in vibrant hues meets the eyes, foregrounded distinctly against the hushed simplicity of the Shinto shrine. It is an incredibly vital spectacle of human artistry at the service of a sacred occasion. Matsuri! documents the use of textiles in more than 25 different festivals scattered over the length and breadth of Japan. The book interweaves these textiles with the other arts that constitute matsuri as well as with their symbolic meanings and the history of textile making in Japan. Gorgeous photographs bring the festivals to life. Gloria Granz Gonick is a student of Japanese textiles and culture. Other contributors include Yo-ichiro Hakomori (adjunct assistant professor of architecture at the University of Southern California), Hiroyuki Nagahara (assistant professor of Japanese at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa), and Herbert Plutschow (professor of East Asian languages and cultures at UCLA and author of Matsuri: The Festivals of Japan among other books).
This volume examines matsuri (festivals) from both urban and rural communities in Japan, showing their interconnectedness to religious life. Based on ethnographic research, authors explore historical change, identity, affect, cultural heritage, tourism, and the intersection of religion with politics.
2021 Freeman Book Awards Honorable Mention - Children's Literature The Best Children's Books of the Year 2022, Bank Street College STARRED REVIEW! "Hadley has created a remarkable debut that flows elegantly, interweaving the two tales in a way that is readable and fun...An exquisite choice for all collections."—School Library Journal starred review A multigenerational retelling of a Japanese legend. Tanabata Matsuri, the Star Festival, celebrates a popular folktale: The Emperor of the Heavens separates his daughter, Orihime, from her love, Hikoboshi, all year—but on this day the two stars finally reunite on a bridge across the Milky Way. For Keiko, her mama, and her grandmother, Tanabata is about making tanzaku wishes, taking in the colorful decorations, and eating delicious food like nagashi somen and shaved ice. But when Obasaan gets lost in the crowd, Keiko and Mama must make their own bridge to find her again—and see if their tanzaku comes true.
A must-have resource for anyone wishing to unlock the mysteries of Kyoto's 1150-year-old Gion Festival. The Gion Festival: Exploring Its Mysteries is an enriching read that allows for a deep dive into the multi-faceted aspects of Japan's most famous annual festival.
A personal word from the Author As I reflect on the pages of "Tokyo Tales: Stories of Life in Japan's Bustling Metropolis," I find myself immersed in a world of wonder, a tapestry of stories that have touched my heart and left an indelible mark on my soul. Through the captivating narratives and vivid descriptions, I have been transported to the vibrant streets of Tokyo, experiencing the city's essence through the eyes of its inhabitants. Tokyo, a city that breathes with a life of its own, is a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions. It is a place where tradition dances hand in hand with innovation, where the past intertwines with the present, creating a harmonious blend that is uniquely captivating. In these stories, I have witnessed the delicate balance between honoring age-old customs and embracing the relentless tide of progress. Tokyo is a city that embraces its rich cultural heritage while eagerly exploring the frontiers of the future. The people who inhabit this bustling metropolis are the heart and soul of its enchantment. Their dreams, hopes, and struggles reverberate through each tale, creating a tapestry of humanity that is both universal and deeply personal. From the stoic salaryman navigating the demands of corporate life to the artist seeking solace and inspiration in the city's hidden corners, the characters in "Tokyo Tales" have taught me valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one's passions. In Tokyo, I have discovered a place where contradictions coexist harmoniously. Amidst the labyrinthine streets and towering skyscrapers, there is a serenity that can be found in the simplicity of a traditional tea ceremony or the tranquility of a Japanese garden. It is a city that celebrates the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant colors of autumn leaves, reminding us of the transient nature of life itself. Yet, Tokyo is also a city that pulses with the energy of modernity. Its neon-lit streets, crowded intersections, and technological marvels create a sensory overload that is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. In these tales, I have marveled at the fusion of ancient traditions with cutting-edge advancements, where futuristic architecture rises alongside centuries-old temples, and where the virtual world seamlessly merges with reality. Beyond the physical landscape, Tokyo is a city of connections. It is a place where strangers become friends, where a shared smile or a moment of kindness transcends language and cultural barriers. In the stories of "Tokyo Tales," I have experienced the warmth and hospitality of Tokyoites, their willingness to embrace diversity and welcome outsiders into their vibrant community. Tokyo has taught me the value of human connection, the power of empathy, and the beauty of forging bonds that transcend borders. As I reach the final pages of this literary journey, I carry with me the memories of Tokyo's tales, the sights, the sounds, and the emotions that have enveloped me throughout this remarkable adventure. The stories have not only provided a glimpse into the lives of Tokyo's inhabitants but have also invited me to reflect on my own journey, my own dreams, and the power of embracing the unknown.