Mikoshi Parade!

Yesterday we went out to the Yokosuka Mikoshi Parade! The mikoshi is a Japanese parade float. It's made of real hardwood, gold and other REALLY heavy items. Each neighborhood has a mikoshi and the people of the neighborhood take turns carrying the mikoshi. There are people  who walk alongside the floats and as the carriers become tired they ask to be "tagged out." Fresh carriers also walk alongside the float and jump in when someone needs a break. A traditional mikoshi parade goes to an area where parade participants enjoy refreshments. The parade then continues back to the place of origin. John and I have seen small neighboorhood mikoshi parades, but nothing like yesterday. I have video and pictures. Here's the pictures and I'll post a couple of videos a day:

The VIPs of Yokosuka, including the Captain of the US naval base.

The start of the parade.

Helping keep the float steady.

Traditional wear.

A lady asks to be tagged out.

In a display of strength, they bounce the mikoshi.