Lesson 8 Part 3 & 4

How did the tradition of winter festivals with scary figures originate?

• People believed spirits would harm them, so they performed rituals.
• People wanted to celebrate the end of the harvest season.
• People enjoyed scaring each other during the cold months.
• People wanted to entertain themselves during the winter.

What role did young men play in the rituals of ancient winter festivals?

• They wore frightening masks to represent spirits.
• They prepared food and drink for the community.
• They organized games and competitions for the festival.
• They performed traditional dances to ward off evil spirits.

How do modern Japanese festivals face challenges according to the story?

• Many festivals are disappearing due to population decline.
• Festivals are becoming too commercialized.
• Festivals are being banned by the government.
• Festivals are losing their traditional meaning.

What is a concern regarding the participation of outsiders in traditional namahage celebrations?

• Critics believe outsiders shouldn't participate in sacred traditions.
• Critics believe outsiders bring new energy to the tradition.
• Critics believe outsiders are more respectful than locals.
• Critics believe outsiders are essential for tradition's survival.

What perspective is shared by a local man regarding the preservation of tradition?

• Keeping the tradition alive is more important than anything else.
• Tradition should evolve to fit modern times.
• Tradition should be abandoned to make way for progress.
• Tradition should be adapted to attract more tourists.

What is the current trend concerning the existence of long-cherished local festivals in Japan?

• Many festivals are disappearing due to various challenges.
• Festivals are becoming more extravagant than ever.
• Festivals are being celebrated with greater enthusiasm.
• Festivals are adapting to meet the needs of younger generations.

How do traditional namahage celebrations differ from modern interpretations?

• Originally, only community members participated in namahage.
• Namahage celebrations were primarily for entertainment.
• Modern interpretations involve elaborate costumes and floats.
• Modern interpretations emphasize religious aspects.

What measures have some villages taken to address the decline of namahage traditions?

• Inviting outsiders to participate in the tradition.
• Banning outsiders from attending the celebrations.
• Hosting international festivals to attract tourists.
• Creating new traditions unrelated to namahage.

What is a significant factor contributing to the disappearance of traditional Japanese festivals?

• Population decline in rural areas.
• Government interference in cultural practices.
• Lack of interest from younger generations.
• Competition from modern entertainment options.

What dilemma is posed regarding the preservation of local cultural traditions in Japan?

• Whether to preserve traditions or accept their eventual disappearance.
• Whether to modernize traditions or keep them traditional.
• Whether to commercialize traditions or keep them sacred.
• Whether to prioritize economic growth over tradition.