cover image by Yukihiro
Would you like to experience hidden local festivals?
Join festivals known only to locals, not found in guidebooks. This time, we introduce festivals across Japan where you can experience authentic culture with locals.
Dynamic Fury at the 'Ushitsu Abare Festival'
Held every July in Noto Town, Ishikawa Prefecture on the Noto Peninsula, the 'Abare Festival' is as dynamic as its name suggests. The festival's highlight is the unique ritual of violently shaking, rolling, and breaking the Kiriko (portable shrine). The festival continues throughout the night, with lantern-adorned Kiriko parading through the town. It's believed that breaking the Kiriko wards off evil, captivating many visitors with its bold display.
Image by Jang Kumi
Image by sawa4133
The origins of the 'Abare Festival' date back about 350 years to the Kanbun era, said to have started to ward off an epidemic by enshrining Gozu Tenno from Kyoto's Gion Shrine. The sight of the portable shrine rampaging through the town is as if a brave deity has possessed it, stirring the hearts of onlookers. The tension at the moment the shrine breaks is worth witnessing.
Praying for Safety and Abundant Catch at 'Itoman Great Tug-of-War'
Held annually on the 15th of the 8th lunar month in Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture, the 'Itoman Great Tug-of-War' is a traditional festival with over 300 years of history. A giant rope over 180 meters long and weighing more than 5 tons is pulled by teams from the east and west. This tug-of-war symbolizes prayers for regional prosperity and abundant harvests, and both locals and tourists can participate.
Image by Toshiya Nagayama
Image by Toshiya Nagayama
Itoman once thrived as a fishing town, with many fishermen risking their lives at sea. The Itoman Great Tug-of-War began as an event to pray for the safety and abundant catch of these fishermen. Today, it symbolizes the unity of local residents, with the entire community coming together in a remarkable display.
A Night of Community Bonding at 'Nogata Yamakasa'
Held every July in Nogata City, Fukuoka Prefecture, the 'Nogata Yamakasa' is known as a festival symbolizing community bonds. The sight of a magnificent Yamakasa, about 6 meters tall, parading through the town is breathtaking. The decorations on the Yamakasa are handcrafted by local artisans, showcasing impressive craftsmanship.
Image by AYUMOON
The origins of Nogata Yamakasa trace back to the Edo period, said to have started to purify the town during an epidemic. The festival's climax sees the Yamakasa racing around with great vigor, reaching the peak of festival excitement. Nogata Yamakasa is a source of pride for the town, with the community coming together to create an inspiring spectacle.
How about it?
Famous festivals crowded with tourists have their appeal, but local festivals offer warm interactions with locals and a chance to experience unique, lesser-known cultures. Why not visit a local festival next summer and create special memories?
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