WASHOI !

You could find a "Matsuri" anytime and anywhere in Japan. "Matsuri" is commonly translated as "Festival" and can have different forms. Going out to comtemplate cherry blossom ("hana-mi") for example can be considered as a Matsuri. However, Matsuri have their roots in religion : Shinto or Buddhism, and may find their part of their origin in Nepal. The verb "matsuru" could also mean "wait for and welcome Gods". During Matsuri, people of the neighborhood parad a portative temple (Mikoshi) in which is placed a local Kami (God) in order to "distribute" its positive effects/aura to all people and houses around. Mikoshi are usually made in wood and are quite heavy. Smaller ones are used for children. When people move the Mikoshi in the street, they use several expression to input the rytm, one of them is something like "Washoi!".

Camera : Pentax Optio MX-4