This past week, students gathered in the TUJ courtyard for a specialty event sponsored by the Taishido Neighborhood association: the Taishido Mikoshi Carrying Experience.

The Mikoshi is a carryable shrine in the Shinto religion which serves as the vehicle to transport a deity. The Taishido Neighbors association provided students with special matsuri attire, consisting of “happi”―a coat often worn during Japanese festivals―and “Tabi”―traditional Japanese socks dating back to the 15th century.

The wonderful day kicked off with the Sangenjaya “Kodomo Mikoshi”, where children from the Taishido neighborhood walked around and carried a miniature Mikoshi. Student volunteers (thank you volunteers!) assisted the students in carrying the shrine throughout a walk around the neighborhood. The children and TUJ students then returned to the TUJ courtyard for special refreshments and prepared for their turn to carry the Mikoshi.

The Mikoshi carrying experience for TUJ students began with a demonstration from the Kokugakuin University students. With existing knowledge about Mikoshi carrying, they showed students the proper way to transport the Mikoshi. The Taishido neighbors association, specifically Baba-san and other staff, also assisted the students in the teaching process.

After preparations were done, TUJ students got under the Mikoshi and began using all their might to carry it. The Mikoshi path involved walking across the street into Showa University, where they reached the main plaza and then returned to TUJ. As the students walked, various community members clapped, cheered, and supported the students carrying the Mikoshi.