Ever since my college years, I've been fascinated by the haniwa. I wasn't studying Japanese history or anything, but was introduced to these figurines by my friend, who was creating haniwa-based chess pieces for her art project. Cool idea!!! I still have the piece she gave me once the project was graded.
For those unfamiliar, the haniwa are ancient (Kofun period) Japanese clay figures supposedly used as burial objects. They come in various shapes and sizes, from the human to the animal. All very, very cute. At least I think so!!!
Being historical objects, there's a pretty good collection in the Tokyo National Museum. Of course I've been there a few times to check out the objects and to purchase some haniwa-themed goods. But I never knew about the haniwa being celebrated or displayed elsewhere.
So, when a friend asked me if I wanted to join the family for a trip to the Haniwa Festival in Shibayama (Chiba prefecture), I jumped at the opportunity.
What the heck is a haniwa festival?!?!?! Well, it turns out to be a rather strange procession of a small group of people dressed as haniwa:
Hilarious to look at. Not very attractive…Followed by some dance and skit performances, which weren't very interesting. I zoned out.
I have to say that the festival (aside from the usual festival street food) was quite blaaaaaah.
But, the haniwa museum they had on site was fantastic, and made the trip worthwhile - nice collection of haniwa figurines on display, with informative commentary. Liked it a lot!
As well as the beautiful foliage:
Fall colors in Japan are sooooooo beautiful with the momiji!!!
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