Fukagawa Hachiman Matsuri is considered one of the three great festivals of Edo (as Tokyo was once called). The main feature is the throwing of water by spectators, symbolizing purification and earning the festival its nickname, the 'Water Throwing Festival.'
Gods residing in the portable mikoshi shrines are said to enjoy a good soaking in scorching August heat. This tradition enables spectators to become a part of the event, providing a reason for the continuation of this Edo festival to this day.
Tokyo, Japan, 2019