Just like the Asagao fair in Iriya, the Hozuki fair in Asakusa tells the feeling of summer. This fair has a long history, supported by the local people of Edo and Tokyo.

Since hozuki blossoms on June and July, there are many Hozuki Fair being held all over Japan during this season.

Even though the day this picture was taken was on the weekdays, the Fair was crowded with many people. Sousen-ji and the street were packed. Furthermore, on July 10th, “Shiman rokusen-nichi (The Day of 46,000 Blessings)”, takes place, based on the belief that a visit to the temple on this day gives worshipers the same benefit as 46,000 visits to the temple and the same number of lucky days.

Walk past the Kaminarimon and stroll along the Nakamise Street. By the time you reach the Houzoumon, both sides of the street will be jammed with shops and Houzuki will welcome you.

Goldfish scooping, apple candy and yukata, the summer of Japan is here.

The salesgirl dresses like the Shitamachi style.

Rub the hozuki fruit that turned red, get rid of teh seeds, wash it and blow it. See if you can make a sound. Since long ago this has been a toy for children.

Let the red hozuki decorate your beginning of summer.

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・Iriya Asagao Ichi (morning glory fair)