Warrior balloons dance in the midsummer twilight

Akibasha Shrine's festival—the Kariya Mando Festival—is designated an intangible folk cultural property of Aichi and prays for fire prevention and community well-being. During this foremost summer festival of Kariya City, known as one of the oddest in Japan, papier-mâché warrior balloons with a height of approx. five meters, width of approx. three meters, and weight of some 60 kilograms are carried by—believe it or not—one person each as they dance to flutes and drums. These "Mando" balloons are actually made from Japanese paper and bamboo, differing from a typical inflated balloon.
Each year, over 100 thousand visitors come to see the spectacle over the two days it is held. And of course, it wouldn't be a proper festival without lots to eat, so food vendors line the event area.