The Matsuri is July 13-16, but the JNTO website says the exact dates and times of various activities are still to be established. You probably know of the controversies around Yasukuni because of war criminals being enshrined there. It's a favorite destination for right-wing politicians, etc. who celebrate Japan's imperial past.

Yeah, I'm well aware of Yasukuni's controversy but surely the thousands of people who go to the Mitama Matsuri are not rabid right-wingers? They look so normal in photographs. And surely I won't be branded a supporter of war criminals for strolling around wiht a beer and a butter potato.

I just want to see the lanterns.

Yasukuni's website says the festival goes from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., but the shrine apparently is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the festival. I'm only trying to figure out is the lanterns will be turned off at 8 p.m. Or do they stay lit. And do the yatai fold their tents and silently steal away at eight. Or what. I predict that everything closes down at eight, as I've gotten used to the early closing of many festivals, but still, I thought I'd ask.

I know this is late for you but the Nitama Masuri was still going on at 8pm on Monday the 14th. Lights were still on, music was still going on, and it looked like all of the booths were still open. We left at around 20:30 and it was still fairly hopping.

Thanks! I went Monday too, but left shortly before eight because I was worried about EVERYBODY leaving at the same time and Kudanshita being mobbed. I still enjoyed it - I love those matsuris. I got my jaga bata fix... and danced tanko bushi.

you can see my lousy photos at www.flickr.com/photos/kellywarrick.

This week's pick: Windchime Festival at Kawasaki Daishi. Really cute little festival. 10:00 to 18:00 today through Saturday, then 10:00 to 21:00 Sunday, and back to 10:00 to 18:00 next Monday. Totally worth the trip.