Sadogashima: The Onidaiko Matsuri

Dear friends,

I’ve only barely returned from Niigata and Sado Island, and I have so much to share with you.  Later, more info will be posted about the wonderfully magical concert at the Sakyukan (in Niigata city) with Hisako Horikawa, but for now, let’s explore the Onidaiko Matsuri, the oni (demon)/shishi (lion) festival (actually, many festivals held at once throughout the island).  Here’s a great blog that explains some of the history.

Hisako Horikawa, Michele Kong and I rented a car and drove all around the island, chasing the festivities that were taking place in practically every small town…Although the weather was freezing, alternating rain, sun, hail, wind (this is spring?), we were warmed by the many charming people, who seemed thrilled we were there.  They graciously welcomed us, not only to join them in their house-to-house visits, but they offered us their food, and often invited us (complete strangers) into their homes.  The drumming and dancing was spectacular, the food divine, and the festivities intense and exciting…

Some of the places we explored:  The Ryotsu Port area, Hiramatsu, Takachi, Ishi-Hanabi, Ishige, Mianmi-katabe, Shimbo, Saruhachi, Oda, Oda-Nishi…

I’m not sure yet just how deeply or in what way these experiences have affected me.  I only know, without a doubt, that something in me is permanently altered!  Soon, I’ll post some videos from those few days…

on the ferry, before setting for Sado Island, the wind was incredible.

Hisako-san tries to feed the birds…

our 1st Demon dance/drumming! very exciting…

through rain, hail, sleet and sun, all festivities continue

sun came out as we entered a Buddhist temple

and started to rain as we left…

the children are excellent drummers

getting a mask on is quite an endeavor

on our way to the Minshiku (mini-hotel) we were mesmerized by the sea

Michele and Hisako, capturing a moment

rays of sun slip through

the view from our Minshiku

the next day, the sea was much calmer, and my seasickness wore off too…

red and white, the colors of Japan…

following the crew to the next house…

no age limits in talent and gusto!

Shiro the goat

view from our 2nd night’s lodgings

Fudo o-Myo: The Achala

Ancient tree: 1000 years old? is that possible?

Inside: 5 Buddhas. On top: the 9 Heavens

Tree Moss

One of my favorite shots!

gorgeous children

A beautiful face

the last group was awesome: we had so much fun hanging out with them!

following them to their next destination…

…which of course involves eating!

I met a taxi driver from NYC!

the Shishi shrine: notice the sake on top!

you can make a shishi out of anything!

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