matsuri

matsuri

Civil or religious festival in Japan, especially a Shinto shrine festival. It traditionally has two parts: a solemn ritual of worship and a joyous celebration. The participants first purify themselves (see harai) by periods of abstinence and by bathing. The inner doors of the shrine are then opened, a drum or bells are sounded, and the deity or sacred power (kami) is called to descend. The ritual continues with offerings, prayers, and ceremonial music and dancing. The celebration usually includes a feast, dancing, theatrical performances, divination, and athletic contests. A portable shrine housing the kami is often taken out and carried in procession.