Ikazuchi no Daihannya - Japanese Men in Women's Kimono Chase Away Evil Spirits in Tokyo
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Published 2024-03-08
The exorcism ritual dates back to the end of the Edo Era (1603-1867) when a series of cholera epidemics hit Tokyo. The 1858 outbreak was particularly devastating and it's believed the Ukiyoe artist Hiroshige may have died from the disease. At Shozoin Temple in Ikakuchi (the old name of Kasai), a priest went from home to home carrying sacred sutra scrolls Dai-hannya to pray for good health. The epidemic waned in the area and so it was repeated on a yearly basis now on the last Sunday of February.
In the Meiji Era (1868-1912) modernization caused tuberculosis to become rampant. On one of the occasions of the Daihannya procession a young man is said to have worn his sister's red kimono undergarments in the hope it would cure her of tuberculosis.
In the past, evil spirits were thought to spread disease so various magical and religious means were used to drive away these disease spreaders.
#japan #festival #unusual
All Comments (4)
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Interesting tradition!! Would love to see Japan and experience its rich culture, great architecture, amazing food and meet these polite sweet people someday😊
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This is pretty funny
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superstition is everywhere in Japan isn't it? or is it?
