Japanese · Culture & Society
祭り
matsuri
Festival
Definition
A public celebration or event, often tied to a Shinto shrine or seasonal tradition. Japanese festivals feature food stalls, traditional performances, and fireworks.
Example
夏祭りで浴衣を着ました。
I wore a yukata at the summer festival.
Etymology
The word '祭り' (matsuri) originates from the ancient Japanese word 'まつり' (matsuri), which meant 'to be joyful' and is derived from the verb '祭る' (matsuru) meaning 'to worship.' Historically, these festivals are linked to Shinto rituals honoring deities and ancestral spirits.
How & Where It’s Used
'祭り' is used in both spoken and written Japanese, often in formal contexts when referring to traditional festivals. They occur throughout the year, with specific festivals being celebrated regionally and often associated with agricultural cycles.