Shinko

   Or shinko-shiki, shinko-sai, o-watari, oide-sai, miyuki-matsuri and other expressions. The main procession of kami at festival times, usually headed by a mikoshi (palanquin) which may be accompanied by yatai (festival floats) of various kinds, with a retinue of bearers and attendants often in costume. A spectacular example is the procession at the Gion matsuri. The journey, which is usually to an o-tabisho or temporary resting-place follows a route which may take the kami among the houses of parishioners and in some cases involves crossing water. In practice the shinko may be the major element in a festival, together with solemn rites and celebrations.