On March 6, I went to Nara - Japan's ancient capital, to witness Shuni-e. This is one of the oldest festivals performed for national peace and prosperity and has been held every year since 752. That's an incredible 1261 years! Each night from March 1 - 14, large, burning pine torches are carried up a flight of stairs and run along the balcony of Nigatsu-do temple. Which is old - bloody old. And made of wood. Yes, wood! These huge fiery torches showered us below with giant sparks, believing we'd be protected from evil and granted a year of good health. Most of the time I was mentally focusing on my "stop, drop and roll" technique in order to avoid panic. By the end of it all, it turned out to be another beautifully surreal experience and I left Nara that evening happy and covered in ash.
No comments :
Post a Comment