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I took this shot today at Takayama, apparently today was one of Japans biggest Festivals, well one of three to be precise and I was very very happy to be part of it.

This was probably one of the most amazing festivals that I have been to in Japan.

So over the next few days I will select a range of pictures, suiting all flavours.

You wont believe it, but the blossoms in this part of Japan are at there peak, arghhhhhh.

Below is more information on the whole event.

14-15 April 2004 (Twice a year)

One of Japan's greatest and most beautiful festivals, dating back to the 15th century, the Takayama Matsuri is held twice a year in the city, once in spring and once in autumn.


The Takayama festival floats are particularly stunning, even by the standards of other Japanese festivals. They are beautifully decorated with carvings, dolls, thick and elaborately woven curtains, lacquerware and bamboo blinds. Even the inside of the floats are adorned with intricate carvings that cover every surface and door.

On April the 15th is the highlight of the festival - marionette performances are held on several of the floats and the god of the shrine visits every household. There are groups of traditional Shinto musicians, mikoshis or palanquins carrying portable shrines and revellers clad in evocative medieval costumes. The day finishes with another solemn ceremony at the shrine.