As fall approaches, while Washington State feels the chill of the season, Hyogo Prefecture continues to enjoy milder temperatures and prepares for its unique celebrations. This is an exciting time, and I would like to introduce 5 special festivals in Hyogo Prefecture that exemplify these rich traditions. Be sure to check the dates if you plan to experience them firsthand!
“Hyogo, the Origin of Japan”
Japan is home to countless festivals, celebrated throughout the year. These events are vital to the community, reflecting nation’s rich history and culture while fostering a sense of togetherness. Learning about these festivals offers a glimpse into Japan’s core values, as many are centered around honoring gods, expressing gratitude for their protection, and seeking their blessings.
Hyogo Prefecture, in particular, has a profound connection to these traditions. Awaji Island, often referred to as “the origin of Japan,” plays a significant role in the nation’s mythology as described in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters), where the creation of Japan by the gods Izanagi and Izanami began. This deep-rooted relationship with divine inspires the vibrant festivals held throughout the region.
Sakoshi no Funa Matsuri 坂越の船祭り
Date: 2nd Saturday and Sunday of October
Sakoshi is a coastal town known for its maritime history and culture. It is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property to preserve its unique traditions and rituals. This port town was historically associated with the Shio-Mawashi-Bune (Salt Round Vessel), a traditional salt transport ship. After having a festival at the Osake Shrine who oversees maritime safety, the Mikoshi (portable shrine) and Shishimai (lion dance) march along the path to the beach, beginning the ship-cruising ritual to the pilgrimage site in Ikishima (Iki-Island). After sunset, you can witness the enchanting sight of ships returning to shore, each illuminated by Chochin lanterns.
Nada no Kenka Matsuri 灘のけんか祭り
Date: October 14-15th
Nada no Kenka Matsuri, also known as Nada’s Fighting Festival is a one of world’s largest fighting festival. Held at Matsubara-Hachiman Shrine in Himeji City, this eagerly anticipated annual autumn event boasts a history of over700 years. The festival originated from the Buddhist concept of hojokai, or abstinence from taking life, and has transformed into a thrilling two-day event. On the second day, the gods engage in a dramatic battle as three mikoshi clash, carried by local men. Words and pictures can’t fully capture the excitement, so I highly recommend experiencing it firsthand or watching it in a video!
Kasumi-Gani Matsuri 香住ガニまつり
Date: September
Kasumi-Gani Matsuri is a crab festival that celebrates local seafood catch, particularly the Kasumi Crab. Held annually, the festival features various activities centered around the crab, including cooking demonstrations, tastings, and an eating contest. The event is open to the public and offers an unique opportunity to participate in “amateur auctioning,” where you can bid on your desired seafood products. The picture above captures the excitement of the Chikuwa-Maki Contest, where hosts throw tube-shaped fish cakes, showcasing the delighted expressions of the crowd. They have more unique and entertaining programs available, so if you’re a seafood lover, this is your chance to shine!
Nishinomiya Matsuri 西宮まつり
Date: September 21-23rd
In Japan, shrines host the Reisai, the most significant annual event, celebrating the enshrined deity with great reverence. In Nishinomiya City, the Reisai takes place on the second day of the three-day Nishonimiya Matsuri, honoring Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology, known as the god of business prosperity. The festival is a dynamic showcase of tradition, featuring a variety of rituals and performances to pay homage to this beloved god. Highlights include captivating puppet performances, a lively mikoshi parade, and the Kodomo-Taru Mikoshi, a mini mikoshi carried by children, along with a spectacular boat parade on the ocean.
Yabusame Shinji 流鏑馬神事
Date: 2nd Sunday of October
At the Rokujo-Hachiman Shrine, famous for its three-storied pagoda built in 1466, a Yabusame Shinji is held, featuring traditional horseback archery at the start and end of the parade. The archer dashes through the shrine’s precincts, mounted on a horse and wearing traditional white hunting attire, keeping time with the rhythm of the drums. This event is also registered as a Kobe City Designated Intangible Folk Cultural Asset, highlighting its significance in preserving cultural heritage. The act of shooting arrows at the target is a sacred gesture, symbolizing blessings and prayers for peace and military success.
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