The Hashi Benkei Yama is one of the most captivating floats of the Ato Matsuri, the latter half of Kyoto’s Gion Festival. This float brings to life a legendary scene from Japanese history, featuring the famous warrior monk Benkei and the young samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune on Kyoto’s Gojo Bridge.
The float’s central display portrays Benkei, a formidable warrior, confronting the agile and skilled Yoshitsune. According to legend, Benkei challenged a thousand swordsmen to duels, and Yoshitsune, despite his young age, outmatched him with his exceptional speed. After losing, Benkei became Yoshitsune’s loyal retainer, and their bond became one of Japan’s most well-known samurai tales.
What makes Hashi Benkei Yama unique is its striking craftsmanship. The float is adorned with intricate tapestries and a scene that vividly recreates the iconic battle. The Yamahoko Junko parade during the Ato Matsuri offers visitors the chance to witness this remarkable float moving through Kyoto’s streets, carrying centuries of tradition and storytelling.
Each year, the Hashi Benkei Yama continues to captivate spectators, blending history with the vibrant spirit of the Gion Festival. It stands as a tribute to loyalty, honor, and the enduring legacy of Japan’s warrior culture. If you’re attending the Gion Festival, don’t miss this legendary float in the Ato Matsuri procession!
Read More: www.gionfestival.org/yamaboko-floats/ato-matsuri/hashi-benkei-yama/
Comments
Post a Comment