Kinryu-no-Mai or Golden Dragon Dance is performed every year in Asakusa, Tokyo to celebrate the founding of Senso-ji Temple.
On March 18, 628 AD two fisherman found a small gold Buddhist statue in the river. Supposedely, a Golden Dragon appeared in the sky to mark the event. A temple was built for the statue and Asakusa grew from then on.
Music by The Secret Commonwealth. :
I stayed near this temple when I visited Japan last autumn and walked near it often. I wasn’t aware of this legend until now.
In fact, my first experiences with Japan was stepping off the train in Asakusa, and walking through the temple grounds in the late evening. All the stands were shuttered, the grounds were empty, with only a couple isolated people walking about. I don’t recall there being a lot of street light, either, as I tried to read the insane directions I’d been given. No idea where I was or where I was going, short on sleep…man it was fun! I really miss that rush of exploring an unfamiliar place.
I’ll definitely have to go back someday.