Asakusa

We were incredibly lucky that our visit to Asakusa coincided (quite by accident) with the annual festival associated with Senso-ji their local temple, and so we saw the most fabulous procession.

I'm afraid I can't tell you many details. Andrew was translating announcements for us at the time, but most of it's flown from my aging brain.



People lined the streets for ages before the procession started, but we sneaked away for a lunch of tempura and soba noodles (made from buckwheat) and were back in time for the fun. I was fascinated by a patiently waiting group on the other side of the road in traditional dress. All the children I saw in Japan were very well behaved -- but I'm sure they're normal and have their "moments."

The procession was led by a golden dragon.


And there were several traditional "bands". I'm so used to brass and pipe bands for processions, but this Japanese music was very calm and restful, by comparison. Still stirring, however.


Of course the samurai were very stirring. Don't they look splendid?




















I loved these women (below), but I'm afraid I can't tell you who they are.