Nikko Toshogu Grand Spring Festival 2012
Every May 18th the Nikko Toshogu Grand Spring Festival is a re-enactment of the procession of Tokugawa Ieyasu occurs at Toshogu Shrine in Sannai, Nikko.
samurai with swords
the samurai next to the Toshogu Gate (Torii)
covering their heads as watchers cast rolls of coins as offerings
the mikoshi is heavy, the smiles are from being hit with wads of coins wrapped in tissue
the procession on Omotesando
festival food stalls
Throughout the day, there are food stalls with all kinds of food and treats; okonomiyaki, yakitori, cream cakes, cotton candy, masks for children, ice cream, etc.
horseback archery (yabusame) from the day before, April 17th