Detailed Explanation of the History and Overview of the Sanja Festival

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of the Sanja Festival
2. History of the Sanja Festival
3. Highlights of the Sanja Festival
4. Costumes that Enhance the Sanja Festival

Introduction

The Sanja Festival, held every May in Asakusa, Tokyo, is one of Japan's most famous festivals. With a history spanning approximately 700 years, this festival celebrates and preserves the local faith and traditions centered around Asakusa Shrine. Attracting many tourists from both within Japan and abroad, Asakusa becomes a hub of vibrant energy during the festival.

This article delves into the charm of the Sanja Festival by providing detailed information on its overview, history, and highlights. Whether you're visiting the Sanja Festival for the first time or have participated many times, you'll discover new insights and a deeper understanding through this article. Enjoy the grandeur of the Sanja Festival and its traditional rituals to the fullest.

1. Overview of the Sanja Festival

The Sanja Festival is an annual grand festival held at Asakusa Shrine in Tokyo's Asakusa district every May. With a history of approximately 700 years, it is one of Japan's most representative traditional festivals. During the Sanja Festival, Asakusa comes alive with vibrant festivities, attracting numerous tourists.

The main event is the "Mikoshi Parade," where three mikoshi (portable shrines) from Asakusa Shrine—Ichinomiya, Ninomiya, and Sannomiya—are carried through the town. Each mikoshi enshrines a different deity, and they are paraded through the streets during the festival. This spectacular sight captivates spectators with its grandeur.

The festival spans three days. On the first day, there is a "Grand Procession" and a performance of "Binzasara Dance," where participants dressed in Edo-period costumes march through the town. On the second day, around 100 local mikoshi are paraded together, enveloping Asakusa in the festival's fervor. The final day features the "Main Shrine Mikoshi Procession," where the main shrine mikoshi visits various parts of the town, culminating the festival in a climactic finale.

The Sanja Festival deepens the bonds within the community and plays a crucial role in passing on Asakusa's traditions and culture to future generations. For tourists, it is a valuable opportunity to experience Japan's traditional culture.

2. History of the Sanja Festival

The Sanja Festival, Asakusa Shrine's annual grand festival, boasts a history of over 700 years and is held every May in Asakusa, Tokyo. Its origins date back to the "Boat Festival" of 1312. This festival, originally held on March 17 and 18, commemorates the discovery of the Kannon statue enshrined at Sensoji Temple by the Hinokuma brothers, Hamanari and Takenari.

◽️ Edo Period

During the Edo period, the festival was known as the "Kannon Festival" or "Asakusa Festival," held in conjunction with Sensoji Temple. At that time, floats (dashi) were the festival's main attraction, with each town competing to showcase its unique designs in the procession. The current practice of carrying the main shrine mikoshi began in the Meiji period.

◽️ Pre-War Period

Before the war, Asakusa Shrine possessed seven mikoshi, including three donated by Tokugawa Iemitsu, but they were destroyed in the fires of war. The current mikoshi were donated by parishioners in 1950 and 1953. The spirits of Hajinomatsuchi no Mikoto in the Ichinomiya, Hinokuma Hamanari no Mikoto in the Ninomiya, and Hinokuma Takenari no Mikoto in the Sannomiya are carried through the town.

The Sanja Festival has inherited the faith and traditions of the community, continuing as an important event into modern times. Today, the festival still draws numerous tourists, filling Asakusa with vibrant activity.

3. Highlights of the Sanja Festival

 ◽️ First Day

The Grand Procession and the Binzasara Mai Ritual Dance
The first day's highlights of the Sanja Festival are the "Grand Procession" and the "Binzasara Mai Ritual Dance." The Grand Procession features people dressed in splendid costumes, accompanied by floats, tobi firefighters, geisha performers, and various traditional dances, parading from Asakusa Shrine through Kaminarimon and Nakamise Street. This procession marks the official opening of the Sanja Festival. The parade starts at 1:00 PM and concludes at Asakusa Shrine.

The "Binzasara Mai Ritual Dance" is a type of dengaku dance that prays for a bountiful harvest and is designated an Intangible Cultural Property of Tokyo. After the Grand Procession returns to Asakusa Shrine, this dance is performed in the shrine’s main hall, praying for business prosperity and family health. This traditional dance is a significant ritual that marks the beginning of the Sanja Festival.

 ◽️ Second Day

Experience the Heat of the Mikoshi Parade with the Local Mikoshi Procession
The second day's highlight is the "Local Mikoshi Procession," held from noon. During this event, around 100 local mikoshi from Asakusa Shrine's parish towns gather, each receiving a purification rite before parading through Asakusa. The moment when the mikoshi pass through Kaminarimon is an excellent photo opportunity, though it is recommended to arrive early due to the crowd.

Particularly noteworthy is the vigorous shaking of the mikoshi called "Tamagushi." This shaking is performed to pray for a bountiful harvest and good health, and the Sanja Festival's Tamagushi is famous for its intensity. If you want to feel the festival's fervor, do not miss this event.

◽️ Final Day

The Main Shrine Mikoshi Procession Reaches Its Peak
The third day’s highlight is the "Main Shrine Mikoshi Procession." Asakusa's town associations are divided into three areas: southern, western, and eastern, and the three mikoshi—Ichinomiya, Ninomiya, and Sannomiya—parade through each district. This procession marks the climax of the Sanja Festival. You can follow the mikoshi through various points in town. Check the procession route in advance to enjoy the festival from your preferred spot.

The main shrine mikoshi departs Asakusa Shrine at 6:00 AM and returns around 6:00 to 7:00 PM, visiting various districts. Additionally, you can see the local mikoshi from the second day on Kaminarimon Street and Umamichi Street, making it a perfect day to enjoy both processions.

The Sanja Festival is packed with many highlights and thrilling events over three days. Ensure you check the schedules and locations to fully enjoy the festival.

4. Costumes That Enhance the Sanja Festival

The Sanja Festival is rich in Japanese traditional culture, and the costumes worn by participants are essential in elevating the festival’s atmosphere. Here, we introduce the representative costumes and accessories that adorn the Sanja Festival.

◽️ Happi and Hanten Coats

One of the most important costumes for the Sanja Festival is the "Happi" or "Hanten" coat. These coats symbolize the festival and range from casual to elaborate designs. They are essential for carrying the mikoshi and feature unique designs for each neighborhood or team, enhancing the sense of unity in the festival. These coats are traditionally dyed by skilled artisans, creating a chic and refined atmosphere.

◽️ Daboshi, Dabopants, Koikuchi Shirts, and Fundoshi

Often worn with Happi and Hanten coats are "Daboshi" shirts, "Koikuchi" shirts, "Dabopants," and "Fundoshi." These costumes combine ease of movement with traditional style, making them practical for carrying the mikoshi or performing dances.

◽️ Haragake

The "Haragake" (belly wrap) originates from the aprons worn by Edo-period craftsmen. Often paired with Koikuchi shirts and Fundoshi, they offer ease of movement and durability, making them valuable for carrying the mikoshi.

◽️ Accessories Like Belts and Tenugui

Accessories such as "Obi" belts and "Tenugui" (hand towels) are indispensable for completing the festival attire. Tenugui are used to wipe sweat or as headbands, serving practical purposes throughout the festival. Traditional footwear like "Tabi" and "Jika-tabi" complete the look, along with "Kinchaku" bags for small items, contributing to the traditional style.

These costumes and accessories preserve the Sanja Festival's tradition and atmosphere while providing comfort and mobility for participants. When participating in the Sanja Festival, be sure to equip yourself with these items to fully enjoy the festival's ambiance.

Conclusion

The Sanja Festival is a captivating fusion of Japanese tradition and modern vitality. The entire Asakusa area is enveloped in festive excitement, providing an unforgettable experience for both participants and tourists. This festival plays a crucial role in strengthening community bonds and showcasing the beauty of Japanese culture to the world.

This article provided a detailed overview, history, highlights, and the costumes that enhance the Sanja Festival. Whether you're visiting the Sanja Festival for the first time or have attended many times, use this information to enjoy the festival to the fullest. Experience the grandeur of the Sanja Festival, witness traditional rituals, and immerse yourself in the culture and history of Asakusa for new discoveries and lasting impressions.

Next May, visit Asakusa and experience the charm of the Sanja Festival firsthand.