Asagaya’s Tanabata Festival: The Papier-mache Float Parade
Thursday, August 14th, 2008
PingMag has published my translation of the article “Asagaya’s Tanabata Festival: The Papier-mache Float Parade.”
Every August, folks flock to the huge Tanabata festival at Pearl Centre in Asagaya, Tokyo. The 700 metre shopping street that stretches from Asagaya station to Omekaido road, comes alive with a world of papier-mache creatures — floating down its path! From original animal designs to popular anime characters, you’ll encounter all kinds of funny creatures in the air. And in the heat, the thirsty parade onlookers enjoy summer treats such as shaved ice and grilled corn on the cob while watching the parade. Read the full story>>