Transformer

from outsider and tourist into a Tamachi local

Tonight my head is sunburned and my shoulders really hurt. I took part in a Matsuri - or Japanese Shinto Festival - today. It started at a nearby Shinto shrine and many people carried the mikoshi - or portable shrine - in a parade. I watched, followed along, and took some pictures. After a while, someone gave me their kimono-like jacket and I grabbed one of the black lacquer pole that hel the mikoshi, rested my shoulder undeneath it and started walking. These things are heavy! I found out later that the one we carried was 1000 lbs.

The route took us back to... my apartment! Well, right next door to my apartment, anyway. People were congratulating me and gave me lots of beer, green tea, water, and beer to drink and cool down. I even asked for a picture to be taken (that's me wearing all inappropriate clothing for the weather):

We continued on and eventually went back to the shrine. Being taller than most of the Japanesse, my shoulders feel battered and bruised, but in a good way.

We drank and ate quite a bit after carrying the mikoshi around the town. The food and drinks were provided by the government - my tax dollars at work! Along the way, I met someone who was originally from New Zealand. I was able to understand him more than most anyone else! He introduced me to to everyone who took part in the parade and promised to take me out to dinner one night soon. It was a real treat to be able to take part in this festival and, while my shoulders may really really ache tomorrow, it was well worth it! I felt like a member of the neighbohood.

When I have a chance, I will post all of the pictures on shutterfly or photo bucket or similar website so that you can see them all (and so that I won't lose them all!) In the meantime, here's a short movie early on as a tourist/spectator: