Partying, cross-dressing, chanting, gift-giving, and this one common phrase repeated over and over — ええじゃないか (ee ja nai ka)? Rough translation — “why not?”

And why not indeed?

In my latest article for Unseen Japan, I discuss the historical context surrounding this dance movement, how the people celebrated, and who possibly started this mania.

If you’re into pre-Meiji Restoration or Bakumatsu history, then this is for you.

Read it here and share it with your other Japanese history buffs.

Happy reading!

— Alyssa