Hyakumangoku Festival is the biggest festival of the year in the Kanzawa area. It’s basically a re-enactment of the entrance of Lord Maeda Toshiie into Kanazawa Castle back in 1583. I wrote about it back in 2007, the first time I was able to march in the parade as a handmaiden to the Lady Maeda. Although I participated again last year, this year I decided to take a break and let some of the other new JETs in the area give it a try. My friends had a ball hanging out with the other parade participants!
Our menfolk terrify and amuse small children dressed in traditional clothing.
East meets West? The boys are accosted by some picture-seeking business men.
The local lady-folk in their guises as handmaidens to the Lady Maeda.
One of my favorite costume groups - these little girls had amazing wigs!
Traditional dancing in the streets - over 1000 participants!
~MS the Younger
3 Comments
June 24, 2009 at 1:09 am
Love this!
June 24, 2009 at 6:19 am
Beautiful costumes!
June 24, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Ooooh – I LIKE these costumes! Fantastic colour and pattern.