Illuminating Sanja Matsuri

In May 2025, I conducted an IRB-certified ethnographic study at Sanja Matsuri, a festival held in Asakusa, Tokyo. The resulting research was shared through two complementary projects: a traditional graduate thesis and an "Illuminated Mangascript." | The bilingual Mangascript combines elements of European illuminated manuscripts and Japanese manga to communicate my findings through an accessible visual narrative intended for readers ages 12 and up. While the thesis presents the research in a conventional academic format, the Mangascript offers a more approachable way to engage with the people, stories, and experiences that shaped the project. | If you find long-winded academic writing boring, I encourage you to skip straight to the Mangascript. This project is the result of years of observation and genuine love for Sanja Matsuri and the people who make it possible. Whether you read the entire thing or just enjoy the illustrations, thank you for spending time with my work.