The Kanda matsuri was held in Tokyo on Sunday for the first time in four years. The main festival is held every odd numbered year but was not held in 2011 due to the earthquake that year so this year it made a welcome return. It is one of three the largest festivals in Japan and on the Sunday locals carry mikoshi, portable shrines, through the streets around the Kanda Myoujin Shrine.
Keeping a stern eye on things:
Getting things ready:
It’s all a bit much for some:
Some of the mikoshi are quite lavish:
Some are pulled on carts:
But most are hoisted onto shoulders:
Happi coat:
For young and old:
All the mikoshi go through the main shrine:
And are paraded in front of the main hall:
To receive a blessing:
Enjoying the show:
The mikoshi are then taken out to their local areas:
Ini Ranahku 