“Matsuri” Art Book by Japanese artist Tatsuya SHIMOHIRA

A beautiful photography art book by the Japanese artist Tatsuya SHIMOHIRA.

Shimohira has been photographing “Matsuri” since 2005, when he first watched the “Shishimai” (lion dance) dance at Hachinohe shrine. The first time when he looked into the Shishi (lion)’s eyes, he realized that this is the path he must follow.

In Japan, some of the ancient beliefs and customs have survived. Shinto is not widely followed as a religion per se, but people have respect for the shrines. The shrines are
the centre of activity for the “Matsuri” which are traditional celebratory dances that
take place throughout country.