Monday, September 01, 2008

I missed the performance - Akita Kanto

From the magazine, it stated: Aug 31 at Central (7.30pm), Clarke Quay.

And I arrived around 8.30pm! Sure enough, I didn't get to witness the 'live show' - the guys were already packing :( Stupid me, for being late! (as if I didn't know the start time..)

The Kanto Festival held in Akita City, has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Held annually from August 5 to 7, the Kanto Festival is to ask for an abundant grain harvest. It has become a symbol of Akita, a leading rice-growing area.

A Kanto is an array of many candle-lit lanterns hung on a bamboo frame and each one looks like a glowing ear of rice. The larger Kanto, weighing about 50 kg (110 lbs.), rise 12 m (13.2 yd.) into the air and suspend 46 lanterns. Supporting these lights are 3,000 people, including performers who demonstrate wonderful skills - balance the Kanto without gripping the poles, and placing them on the palms of their hands, they raise them higher and higher.

Reference: http://web-japan.org/atlas/festivals/fes03.html

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