Shiogama shrine festival.
Shiogama (Salt Cauldron Harbour) Shrine was established about 1300 yeas ago and is the largest Shinto shrine in northern Japan.
It holds the protective spirits of seamen and fishers, As with other shrines, once a year the spirits are taken for a bit of a day out. They get into a smaller portable shrine which is paraded around the town or village.
In Shiogama they are put on special Phoenix boats and paraded around the harbour
The fishing boats also parade with the most successful boat in the lead.
This all finishes off with fireworks over the harbour.
This Sunday I will be watching from anchor in the outer harbor.
Hoping that the rain holds off.
gary
That's brilliant Gary, thanks for sharing such a wonderful celebration. Trust the Japanese to make a festival so colourful.
