Tochigi, May 06 (News On Japan) –
The annual ‘Mamada-no Jaga Maita’ was held Sunday in Oyama, Tochigi, the place locals carry an enormous snake made from bamboo and adorned with fern leaves to hope for favorable climate, considerable harvests, and safety from plagues.
Designated as an vital intangible people cultural asset by the nationwide authorities in 2019, the ‘Snake Demon Festival’ dates again 400 years. Seven 15-meter dragon-headed ‘Ja’ snakes from every district are paraded across the city and submerged within the pond at Mamada Hachimangu Shrine, the place they drink water whereas splashing about. Originally held on April 8 within the outdated calendar, it now takes place on May 5 (Children’s Day) to accommodate the younger bearers of the occasion.
Source: ANN