Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is one of Japan’s most exhilarating and intense festivals, held annually in the city of Kishiwada, Osaka Prefecture. Known for its fast-paced, thrilling cart-pulling races, this centuries-old festival draws massive crowds, eager to witness the display of strength, speed, and community spirit that defines the event. With intricately designed wooden carts—called danjiri—pulled at high speeds through narrow streets, Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri has earned its reputation as one of Japan’s most unique and exciting festivals.
For tourists seeking a deep dive into the heart of traditional Japanese culture, this festival offers not only an adrenaline-fueled spectacle but also an insight into the rich communal bonds that shape local life.
The History and Origins of Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri
The origins of Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri trace back over 300 years, to the Edo period. The festival is said to have been first organised by Okabe Nagayasu, the lord of Kishiwada Castle, in 1703. He sought to pray for a bountiful harvest by making offerings to the Shinto gods (kami) of the land. Danjiri, or portable shrines, were built and paraded through the streets as part of the festival’s religious ceremonies, asking for the gods’ blessings on the rice harvest.
Over the years, the festival grew in scale, with local communities (known as cho) designing and building increasingly elaborate and ornate danjiri carts. These carts, made from intricately carved wood, came to symbolise the pride of each neighbourhood, representing not only the hopes for a successful harvest but also the competitive spirit between different cho districts. This friendly rivalry remains at the heart of the festival today, with teams competing to pull their danjiri carts through the streets at breakneck speeds.
The Thrill of the Danjiri Cart Races
What sets Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri apart from other festivals in Japan is the sheer intensity and speed of the cart races. Unlike other festivals, where floats and shrines are typically paraded slowly and ceremoniously, the danjiri carts in Kishiwada are pulled at high speeds by teams of up to 100 men. These men are often dressed in traditional festival attire, with happi coats and headbands, as they work together to steer and control the massive carts, which can weigh up to 4 tons.
The danjiri themselves are works of art, often adorned with intricate wood carvings depicting mythical creatures, historical scenes, and Shinto deities. Each cart can be as large as 4 meters tall and 10 meters long. Atop the danjiri, a “daikugata” (the carpenter or leader of the team) stands, guiding the cart with dramatic movements while calling out instructions to the team below. His balance and agility are crucial to ensuring the safety of the team and the cart, as they navigate sharp corners and narrow streets.
The most exciting moments of the festival occur when the danjiri carts take sharp turns at full speed, a technique called yarimawashi. It’s during these turns that the strength, skill, and coordination of the pullers are put to the test, and the festival’s thrilling energy reaches its peak. The sight of the towering danjiri carts careening through the streets at high speed, with the crowd cheering them on, is a spectacle unlike any other.
However, the speed and intensity of the event also mean that accidents do occasionally happen, with carts tipping over or crashing into buildings. Despite the risks, participants and spectators alike consider it an essential part of the festival’s excitement and tradition.
The Festival Schedule and Key Events
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is typically held over two days, in mid-September, with a smaller festival occurring in early October in other parts of Kishiwada. The festival begins with a ceremonial opening, where local priests bless the danjiri carts and participants to ensure a safe and successful event.
The races themselves take place in the morning and afternoon, with teams competing to pull their carts through designated routes around Kishiwada Castle and other areas of the city. The highlight of the festival is the yarimawashi, where the carts make their daring high-speed turns. In the evenings, the carts are illuminated with lanterns, and the teams parade through the city at a slower pace, allowing spectators to admire the intricate designs of the danjiri.
In addition to the races, the festival includes traditional music performances, food stalls, and other festivities that give visitors a chance to experience the lively, celebratory atmosphere of a Japanese matsuri.
Experiencing Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri as a Tourist
For visitors, Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri offers a rare opportunity to witness a side of Japan that is steeped in tradition and local culture. The festival is easily accessible from Osaka, and while it is a popular event, it retains an authentic, community-focused atmosphere that makes it a rewarding experience for both locals and tourists alike.
While watching the danjiri races, visitors should be mindful of safety and stay behind designated barriers, as the carts move quickly and unpredictably. It’s also recommended to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially near the sharp corners where the yarimawashi takes place.
Conclusion
Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is one of Japan’s most thrilling and culturally rich festivals, offering an unforgettable spectacle of speed, strength, and tradition. For anyone visiting Japan in September, experiencing the excitement of the danjiri races and the vibrant community spirit of Kishiwada is a must. This festival not only showcases the dedication and pride of local neighbourhoods but also offers a deep connection to Japan’s long-standing traditions, making it a truly unique cultural experience for visitors.
