The Mihara Yassa Dance Festival - Japan 2-

The Mihara Yassa Dance Festival is held every beginning of August, which is one of the biggest events here. I have never participated in performing the dancing at this carnival, but learned how to move my hands and feet along the music when I was at primary school as one of the proper lessons, like math and science, so it's very vital to remember it. What is more, it was the 50th anniversary this year, so I was very lucky to be in Mihara to enjoy and dance together with my friends! 

Here is the origin of this dance. If you would like to know more, please hit the link above.

In 1567, Kobayakawa Takakage, the third son of Mori Motonari, a wise general of the Warring States period, built a sea castle by connecting small islands in the bay of Mihara in Bingo Province, a key location for water, land, and transportation, to command the Seto Inland Sea navy. The Yassa Dance is said to have originated when people of all ages and genders celebrated the completion of the castle by beating shamisen, drums, flutes, etc., getting drunk on celebratory drinks, and dancing to their hearts' content. Since then, it has been said that it has become a custom among the general public for celebrations to begin and end with " Yassa."

50 teams step out on the street with a live music band on the main stage, and each team has its own unique costume and dance style, so it was fascinating just looking at it. Then I want to give a big shout to one of my friends performing here. She is so good at it! We shouted her name to cheer for her!

At the very last,  there was a time that anyone could join the dance so we jumped in! It was so much fun to dance and sing in such a big event like this.

We went to our go-to Izakaya ( Japanese pub), Kibariya, after the party to toast! Well, my friends are regular customers so they were happy to take us to this place to spend a fun time together. Thank you for your friendship! Besides, the owner is such a funny person, so we had an amusing chat over beers, food and sake. Food is so good I should say. 

Then we move on to the bar, Carton, has been around a long time so an alcohol free person my mom even knows of. The bar master is humble, knowledgeable, and professional in manner. My partner chose to taste the Japanese whiskey by taking his advice, which was rare for him to find overseas, and he absolutely loved it.

Lastly, I want to give a huge thanks to my friends, who made the dance festival gathering so special and fun, as I haven't had any chances to make it since my base is Australia and I usually have little time to stay here. See you guys soon!