Position: [ 35°40N, 139°45E ]
When one thinks of Tokyo, it’s hard not to think of the noisy ultra-modern life with skyscrappers, giant neon lights, karaoke bars, and armies of salarymen and office ladies crossing the streets at the same time without noticing you.
Soba shop by the Jindaiji
So when my quiet japanese friend took me to visit the more traditional side of Tokyo, I thought that that was a once in a lifetime lucky opportunity.
And after all, was it not the Golden Week? May 5th? Children’s Day? Matsuri time!
Street snacks by the Jindaiji
First things first. We needed food. So there we went to a traditionalish place near a buddhist temple.
That’s where I found that Japan was truly an Asian country.
And when there is an Asian country, street food is never far away.
Imagine yourself snacking an senbei (rice cracker) that has been made by an old man right in front of you. Yummy!
Taiko waiting at Ookunitamajinjya
After visiting around, we headed for the matsuri.
That was the real deal, with these giant religious drums called Taiko.
Each one weigths 2 tons and has to be pulled by a dozen men with ropes. They sound truly phenomenal, like nothing i’ve heard before, a bit like thunder.
Matsuri parade opening
The surroundings of the temple were covered with small fair stands, with attractions such as catching as many goldfishes as possible, or food. I thought it was fun, but it was really a children’s paradise.
The matsuri continued on with a parade with priests, taikos and gods and so ended our day of visiting traditional Tokyo.
And now, we’re ready to face the Shinjuku station again!
Filed under: Asia, Japan | Tagged: spring, Tokyo, traditions
