Tousosai festival at Touzan Shrine. Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan.

Ceramic Torii Gate at Touzan Shrine in memory of Korean born potter Ri Sanpei. Arita, Saga Prefecture Japan.

Touzan Shrine is a unique Shinto shrine. It is dedicated to Ri Sanpei the Korean immigrant who established the manufacture of porcelain in Japan.

Ceramic komaninu at Touzan Shrine in memory of Korean born potter Ri Sanpei. Arita, Saga Prefecture Japan.

The shrine’s torii gates are made of porcelain as are a pair of komainu (The Japanese equivalent of Okinawan shisa).

The monument in memory of Korean born potter Ri Sanpei. Arita, Saga Prefecture Japan.

A monument stands to Ri Sanpei on the hill behind the shrine. At Tousosai, a festival held on May 4th, Touzan Shrine gives thanks to Ri Sanpei. The ceremony is attended by local potters, representatives from Korea, and sometimes artists from other countries.

Kannushi Miyata Taneomi of Touzan Shrine. Arita, Saga Prefecture Japan.

The priests offered prayers and the miko performed a sacred dance. I was given permission to take a photos by the priests of the shrine who were so kind and friendly.

Miko of Touzan Shrine at Tousosai festival. Arita, Saga Prefecture Japan.

I love Japanese festivals, even those which are comparatively unknown. I love the costumes, the ancient traditions passed down from generation to generation, the smiles, and the general awesomeness.