June 23, 2009...10:00 am

Hyakumangoku Festival 2009

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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.

Our menfolk terrify and amuse small children dressed in traditional clothing.

East meets West?  The boys are accosted by some picture-seeking business men.

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.

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!

One of my favorite costume groups - these little girls had amazing wigs!

Traditional dancing in the streets - over 1000 participants!

Traditional dancing in the streets - over 1000 participants!

~MS the Younger

PS:  A little more coverage at the Ishikawa JETs blog.

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