Procession
Japanese Name:
行列
Romaji Name:
gyouretsu
Description
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Gyōretsu is a Japanese term that refers to a line or queue of people waiting for something, typically to enter a place, purchase goods, or participate in an event. The word "gyōretsu" is composed of "gyō", meaning "to go" or "to proceed," and "retsu", meaning "line" or "row." In essence, it describes a line of people waiting for their turn or a specific action to take place.
History
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Processions are organized groups of people moving together for ceremonial, religious, or celebratory purposes, dating back to ancient civilizations.
In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, processions were held for religious rituals, festivals, and royal events.
In medieval Europe, processions marked religious holidays, coronations, and civic celebrations.
In Japan, traditional processions (gyōretsu) have been part of festivals, such as carrying portable shrines (mikoshi), since at least the Heian period (8th–12th century).
They often symbolize unity, reverence, or public celebration, with music, banners, and costumes enhancing the spectacle.
Today, processions remain common worldwide, from religious ceremonies to national parades and cultural festivals.