Sakitama Fire Festival さきたま火祭り
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Festival's focal pointThis grass hut is at the center of the festival site which is within the Sakitama Tumuli Park. It will be burned later in the evening for the festival's climax.
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Offerings
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Festival siteIt is a circular site with people sitting along the perimeter.
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SpectatorsThese people are sitting in the best area to view the festival.
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EntertainmentAn outdoor stage provides a variety of entertainment during the day.
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Festival participantsThey are dressed in the costume of the ancient Kofun (Tumuli) Period of Japan. They will be carrying torches from the nearby tumuli.
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TumulusCherry trees are at the top.
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Shinto ceremonyAt around 6:30 pm, the festival climax starts.
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Torch bearers enter
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Marvelous spectacle
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Parade aroundThe torch bearers parade around the entire perimeter before they gather around the hut.
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Male prince
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Female princess reigning over the Sakitama Fire Festival in Gyoda, SaitamaShe's 15 years old.
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Torch lightingThe prince and princess light the torch that will ignite the hut.
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Climax
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Torch bearers from the tumulus
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Stage ceremonyThe torch bearers gathered in front of the stage where there were speeches and cheers.
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FireworksThe festival ended at 7:30 pm.
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