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Kanamara Matsuri

Japan

By Kai Bernstein

April 6^th, 2019

Please enjoy in fullscreen mode for the most impressive experience.

History

The first Sunday of April celebrates "Kanamara Matsuri", an annual growing festival in Kawasaki close to Tokyo since 1969. It isn't hard to notice this crowd is praising the penis. With over 50,000 locals and tourists, penis relics can be found on noses, as lollipops and carried around on palanquins. The festival has historical ties to the Kanayama Shrine. In the 1600s, Kawasaki sex workers would worship and pray for STI protection as it was a stop for many travelers spending time in brothels or "tea houses".

The Legend

There are many legends around the genesis of this festival. From the battle of a sharp-toothed demon inside the vagina to two gods healing a womb after the birth of a fire god.

The most popular myth involves an envious sharp-toothed demon who fell in love with a young woman and hid inside her vagina. According to this legend, the demon bit off the penises of two young men on their wedding nights. In distress, the young woman went to a blacksmith who designed her an iron penis which broke the teeth of the demon. For this reason, the phallus is an important symbol of this festival.

I wonder if this story is metaphorical for STI's and the problems which occurred with prostitution?

The parade leader started the march towards the shrine.

Arrival of the first Phallus

No one can hold their excitement any longer.

They danced and sung moving the giant phallus around.

To get a better idea of the action have a peep at this little clip.

Second Phallus

This phallus called "Elizabeth" is carried by the transgender community of Japan.

Third Phallus

The last and tiniest penis on a palanquin of the day.

Souvenirs

This modern festival profits off penis themed products.

I wonder if a percentage of the earnings are donated to HIV charities or STI research?

Everything is about the penis during that festival. Even the vegetables are carved like a phallus.

Lollipops

To be honest it was a bit hard to get used to see so many people sucking lollies shaped as a penis. But in the end it was just a lot of innocent fun.

Goodbye! さようなら

It was a funny and peaceful festival. It's about new experiences like this when it comes to traveling. Broaden your spectrum, stay open minded to other cultures and don't be afraid to eat candy penises.

Footnotes

Sony A7RII 24-105mm

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FootNotes

Sony A7RII 24-105mm

HK #3

Kanamara Matsuri

Japan

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