Neighborhood of Tondabayashi.

In my home town, Tondabayashi city, there are some popular communities.   Some of my neighborhoods are belong to a community called Seinen-dan which means group of young people.   Seinen-dan’s main activity is Danziri Festival (Danziri is a sacred portable shrine which is traditionally used to express thanks for God) held in October every year.   Actually, the Danziri Festival is going to be held on 8^th, October this year.

                                                             

program of Danziri Festival this year

Danziri Festival in 2009.

Every year, eight Seinen-dans take part in this festival in Nishikori Shrine which is registered as an important cultural property.  

This shrine is placed on the center of my town just like many other shrines is done so.   My town is divided eight districts based on the location from this shrine and each district has each Seinen-dan.   People, mostly, join Seinen-dan in their own district when they are child and they grow up with passion for it.   Members of Seinen-dan are really enthusiastic for Danziri performances including songs and some music instruments, and of course Danziri moving itself.   They prepare for just 2-days festival for almost all year.  

This picture represents deep relation between Seinen-dan and people living in the district.   Each of these lanterns has name of shop and store which donates money to Seinen-dan.   Even they are not member of Seinen-dan, they try to support it and enjoy Danziri festival.