Official
The tradition of portable shrine and town fire extinguisher in Edo
This month (May), the Kanda Festival was held as usual after a long time, and the portable shrine was cruising gorgeously. In addition to Kanda festival, big festivals continue in Chuo-ku. Festival preparations are steadily progressing in each region such as Tsukiji, Tsukuda, and Shinkawa. It's really exciting to see the bustle back.
At the festival in Edo, the masters of the Tobi sang the traditional "woodwork" to make Shinto ritual even stricter. Originally, this tradition of the roots of labor songs at construction sites is still handed down. The town fire extinguisher, which was institutionalized in the Edo period, was also played mainly by the Tobi people, so their costumes and costumes are still preserved and add flowers to the festival.
At the time of the festival, you may see a large Japanese lantern called "Kamiriya" hanging from the traditional town fire extinguisher in the place of portable shrine (called "Miyariya").
The former Dentsu headquarters building in Tsukiji is currently under demolition work, but explanations and illustrations related to "town fire extinguishing" are posted on the construction protective fence. It's very easy to understand and it's fun just to look at it.
I think it is meaningful not only as a cultural interest but also as a preliminary knowledge of the festival, so be sure to keep an eye on it when passing nearby. How many groups do you have in your town? Why don't you take this opportunity to check it out?