The Tan Tans' Life Begins

Finally, a festival! 15 September was a special day as it marked the Owase Hachiman Jinja Matsuri (尾鷲八幡神社祭礼), one of the few festivals celebrated here in Owase. Almost the whole town was out, either playing the role of the performer, or that of a spectator. We were treated to a huge procession that took place along the Kumano Kodo (world heritage site and ancient pilgrimage area) main road, all the way to the Hachiman Jinja (temple) near Owase Port. Along the way, different types of dances involving the hands were performed continuously (from the very traditional Owase bushi to a dance choreographed to the tunes of Ponyo on the cliff by the sea ). The entire parade lasted about 2 hours. This festival marks the pilgrimage of the daimyo (feudal lord in the Edo era) from Kumano Kodo to the temple, and the dancing of hands signify offerings to the Hachiman God. 3 things are prayed for yearly: safety at sea, abundant (fish) catches and bountiful harvests. Note Owase's roots as a fishin...