沼田祭り 令和5年８月 Numata Matsuri August 2023

Numata Matsuri (a local festival held in Numata, Gunma Prefecture from August 3rd-5th) features a parade of several mikoshi (floats), each adorned with lanterns and featuring Japanese drummers which represent the different districts of the city. Each year, the giant Tengu (long-nosed ogre) head is carried around by a women-only crew. The women shouting "wasshoi!" incorporate martial arts into their dance. Plenty of food can be found at the vendor stalls (yatai): takoyaki, yakisoba, karaage (Japanese-style fried chicken), and so on. With a series of highballs in one hand and my camera in the other, I got to experience this festival for the first time.