Sometimes you see some very unique traditions in Japan - often these have religious connections of one kind or another, and in those cases usually seem to involve drinking copious amounts of alcohol. Two weeks ago I was lucky enough to witness one that was quite different. Groups of children were carrying two shrines around the neighbourhood - probably bringing, or at least asking for, blessings on the neighbourhood. It was very hot indeed and quite a struggle for both the children and for the adults looking after them - but it made for a very interesting sight. The local temple - Ootri-Jinja (Big Bird Temple) seemed to be at the middle of this and had a festival aimed at children at the same time.
One Shrine was essentially a Taiko drum on wheels. Leica M7 with Fuji Velvia
The other actually needed to be carried. Leica M7 with Fuji Velvia
It was actually a very intricate thing. Leica M7 with Fuji Velvia
Leica M6 with Kodak TMAX 400
Leica M6 with Kodak TMAX 400
Ootori Jinja was decked out for the occasion. Leica M7 Fuji Velvia
