Is This the World's Oldest Fire Department Muster?
IN THE YEAR 1657 A DEVASTATING fire swept through Tokyo, then known as Edo, and burned out two-thirds of the capital city. The disaster encouraged the government to then create Japan's first professional fire department and two years later, in 1659 a parade along with demonstrations of skills was held for the public. For the 354 years since, the "Edo Men" have held this annual event known as Dezomeshiki.
Japan Today
This year's Dezomeshiki got underway at 9:30 am Sunday with a parade of more than 130 firetrucks, helicopters and fireboats. About 2,700 firefighters from around the country participated and following the parade was a large display of firefighting skills and techniques for the public.
This video of the apparatus parade and firefighting skills was taken at last year's Dezomeshiki:
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Reuters
The highlight of the day came later when a historical group known as the Edo Firemanship Preservation Association put on an astounding display of firematic acrobatics.
Reuters
Dressed in their 17th-century period costumes, they scaled replica bamboo ladders and performed all sorts of breathtaking stunts.
The Daily Mail has more details and photos HERE.
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