Kiyomori Matsuri 宮島清盛まつり
Warrior Parade
This festival celebrates the memory of the brave Taira no Kiyomori (1118-1181) who labored for the prosperity of Miyajima. The military commander and statesman put in place the first warrior government in the history of Japan. He became a literary hero with Heike Monogatari written at the beginning of the Kamakura period (1185-1333).
The costumes of this festival are from the Heian period (794-1185). Kimonos women wore had more than twelve layers with a color coordination system of flowers, plants and animals specific to each season or every month. This wearable art is designated by the term "irome" and is mentioned in the Tale of Genji. The various parts of the outfit have names associated with natural elements such as sakura for flesh color of cherry blossom. Other colors refer to iridescent shell of some insects, the first translucent snowfall or that intense, thick snowpack in the heart of winter.
Many children participate in the parade through marching bands, carrying flags emblazoned with the bright cheerful colors of different warlords. Each year, the festival is a great opportunity to experience a unique "matsuri". In addition, you might be able to see women dressed in Shirabyoshi, the famous female dancers of the Heian period (794-1185). A great way for the curios to time travel.
