Matsuri float
Pulled floats used in Japanese festivals.
In Japanese festivals, a Matsuri float—often called a *dashi* or *yatai*—is a general term for any float that is pulled or carried during the event. Alongside *yatai* and *mikoshi*, *dashi* are one of the three major structures found at these celebrations. Regional names for these floats vary widely, with common terms including *kasaboko*, *danjiri*, *yamahoko*, *yamakasa*, and *hikimono*; sometimes *dashi* and *yatai* are also referred to as *hikiyama*, while *yama* (as in Gion Matsuri) specifically denotes a type of carried float, distinct from pulled *dashi*.
Originally designed to resemble mountains, *dashi* floats reflect the tradition of mountain worship, where spirits were believed to dwell in peaks. Spears and swords atop the *dashi* act as markers for these divine spirits, and people ride on the floats to welcome the gods. *Dashi* have wheels, are pulled by people, and can carry passengers. In contrast, a *mikoshi* is used to transport *kami* (gods) during a procession called *shinko-shiki*, and is carried on people’s shoulders rather than pulled. While the *mikoshi* is sacred to the gods, priests or shrine attendants may ride on or accompany it in many festivals.
*Dashi* floats appear in many Japanese festivals, such as the Takayama Matsuri in Gifu Prefecture, where ten *dashi* parade through the city both day and night. The Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo, however, primarily features *mikoshi* processions rather than *dashi* floats.
- also_known_as
- Dashi, Kasaboko, Danjiri, Yamahoko, Yamakasa, Hikimono
- associated_festivals
- Takayama Matsuri
Lore & Background
Dashi floats were originally designed to look like mountains, reflecting the concept of mountain worship, where people believed spirits resided in the mountains. The spears and swords that adorn the tops of the dashi serve as markers for these divine spirits, and people ride on top of the dashi to help welcome the gods. Dashi have wheels and are pulled by people, and can carry passengers as well.
Reader's Guide
Matsuri floats, particularly dashi, are a significant component of Japanese festivals, embodying traditional beliefs in mountain spirits and divine presence. They are one of three large festival structures, alongside Yatai and Mikoshi, each with distinct roles: dashi are pulled and carry passengers, while mikoshi are carried on shoulders and reserved for gods. The floats appear in major festivals such as the Takayama Matsuri in Gifu Prefecture and the Kanda Matsuri in Tokyo, where they are accompanied by mikoshi and participants in traditional clothing. The terminology for these floats is regionally inconsistent, reflecting local customs and variations. Their cultural importance is underscored by their inclusion in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list under 'Yama, Hoko, Yatai, float festivals in Japan.' The floats serve as both religious vessels and community symbols, linking participants to ancestral traditions of mountain worship and seasonal celebrations.
Did You Know?
- Dashi floats were originally designed to look like mountains, reflecting mountain worship.
- People ride on top of dashi to help welcome gods, while mikoshi are sacred to the gods and may be accompanied by priests or attendants.
- The terminology for Matsuri floats varies by region; common names include Kasaboko, Danjiri, and Yamahoko.
- Dashi have wheels and are pulled by people, whereas mikoshi are carried on shoulders.
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