A variety of rites
and festivals (Matsuri) are held throughout the year at Shinto Shrines in Japan.
Particularly large festivals are held at the turning points between seasons. In
spring rites are held to pray for the successful maturation of that year's rice
crops, and in fall similar rites are performed in gratitude for the harvest. In
summer, rites are held to ward off pestilence from the crops, and to implore
protection from epidemics and other disasters which may afflict the human
beings. In winter, festivals are held to re-invigorate the life-force of all
things which is believed to be weaken at the close of the year.Saegusa Sai ( Oomiwa Jinja, Nara) At Matsuri, priests recite prayers at the shrine presenting offerings consist of seasonal goods called Shinsen. Following a rite performed in tranquillity and with solemnity, a dance is performed with music at Kaguraden in order to please and comfort deities.