Dancing Lion
At least these guys had costumes to keep them warm - the "Miss Vancouver" float, the women looked like they would soon succumb to frost bite.
Cross Dressing Students
For some reason, cross dressing seems to be a bit more common in Japan. These students were a little surprised to see foreigners taking pictures of them - the girls behind throught it was hilarous.
Human Archery Target
Back in the day (Kamakura Period 1192-1333AD), apparently the Yabusame Archers had humans hold the targets. Notice there is only one level - good enough, not the bulls eye we see.
Little Bird
Some of the children were dressed as little birds and little butterflies. At this point they had walked a few km so I'm sure they were tired. (Zen-retsu)