taimatsu

Taimatsu is a term originating from Japan that refers to a wooden torch. These torches are traditionally made from bundles of straw or bamboo, often with a layer of straw wrapped around a wooden stick. They were historically used for illumination, particularly in rural areas and during festivals. Taimatsu can range in size from small handheld torches to large, elaborate structures that are carried in processions or erected as part of a celebration.

One of the most famous instances of taimatsu use is in the Onbashira festival in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. During this ancient Shinto ritual, which takes place every six years, giant logs are transported down steep slopes. Participants carry large taimatsu to light the way and create a dramatic atmosphere. Another notable event is the Nachi Fire Festival in Wakayama Prefecture, where massive taimatsu, some weighing up to 50 kilograms, are paraded through the streets to purify the area and honor the deity of the Nachi Falls. The smoky, flickering light of the taimatsu is a significant visual element in these and many other Japanese festivals, contributing to their unique ambiance and cultural significance. The craftsmanship involved in creating and handling taimatsu is also a respected skill.