On July 27, 2022, the Global Asia Research Center, Waseda University, hosted a workshop entitled “State Ritual (Matsurigoto) and Popular Carnival (Matsuri-sawagi): The Changing Role of the Masses in the Shikinen Sengū Rites at Ise” presented by Jordan Sand, Professor of Japanese History at Georgetown University.
The presentation began with an introduction to the author’s book “Destruction and Renewal at the Ise Shrines” (working title), 「破壊と再生の伊勢神宮」（仮題）.
Professor Sand discussed Sengū as a form of potlatch, which is defined as an opulent ceremony at which possessions are given away or destroyed to display wealth or to enhance prestige. Professor Sand analyzed how the forms of potlatch have been transformed from different perspectives. Ise in the Tokugawa period had been dominated by the masses as a popular potlatch Sengū and a mass festival.
Professor Sand presented Tokugawa records about portrayals of Sengū as useful fictions, omitting chaos. The 55th Sengū in 1869 during the Tokugawa and Meiji period transition was characterized as Eejanaika with a breathing space, with a record that the precincts were tranquil.
Professor Sand concluded the presentation by highlighting the process of disciplining the national public and the end of the potlatch. Some of the key events were highlighted. During the 1870s imperial descent from Amaterasu has taught in primary schools. During 1876-1885, Meiji Imperial Japanese learned new manners toward the emperor. In February 1889, Nishino Buntaro assassinated Mori Arinori for insulting the imperial mausoleum. In October 1889, Sengū was protected by imperial guards. Finally in 1890 Okagemairi failed. Professor Sand highlighted that the relationship between the masses and emperor-Shinto in the Tokugawa period and in modern Japan has changed.
The similarity of the practice of potlatch with Mochimaki currently practiced for building a new house in Japan was mentioned by a participant. At Ise, a similar culture was described in drawing images showing pilgrims tossing money to people waiting with nets under the Uji Bridge. Interestingly, the similar practice continues, although in different forms of formality.