In many ways a ritualistic form of keepsie upsies, kemari is played to entertain the gods.
The game involves a circle of 6-8 people attempting to keep a deer-skin ball called a 'mari' (鞠 - 24cm wide) in the air for as long as possible, using only their heads, feet, knees and back.
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🎌NATIONAL FOUNDATION DAY🎌
February 11th's 'Kenkoku Kinen-no-hi' celebrates the 'founding' of Japan by the first emperor, Jimmu (神武天皇 711-585BC).
Shimogamo-jinja, because of its links to Jimmu, puts great effort into celebrating National Foundation Day, with displays of kendō and kemari.
#Japan #蹴鞠 #kemari #Kyoto #京都 #建国記念の日 #NationalFoundationDay
Tanabata (七夕), also known as 'Hoshi-matsuri' (星祭り the 'Star Festival'), celebrates the reunion of Orihime and Hikoboshi on the 7th day of the 7th month.
The celebration evolved from 1 of the 'Go-sekku' (五節句), 5 events held on auspicious days throughout the year.
Imported by the imperial court from China, these festivals now coincide with the 1st January, 3rd March, 5th May, 7th July and 9th September.
#Kyoto #Japan #七夕 #京都 #Tanbata #starfestival #kemari #蹴鞠 #星祭り
Camellia Tea Ceremony