Izawa Gion Festival

About this event

The Gion Matsuri of Izawacho is said to have originated in the late 1600s to quell an epidemic. On the eve (Yoimiya), small yatai floats and mikoshi (portable shrines) depart from the shrine in the afternoon, traveling through the town toward the Otabisho (resting point). In the evening, large yatai floats join in, inviting spectators into a mystical world continuous since the Genroku period. During the main festival (Honmatsuri), small yatai and portable shrines parade through the town all day. When festival lanterns hung under the eaves are lit and high-mounted lanterns (Takabari chochin) hang over the mikoshi, the festival reaches its peak. Afterwards, the mikoshi is returned to the shrine, and the Gion Matsuri quietly concludes. This festival was designated as a Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property on October 17, 2005.

Venue

Isawa Shrine

1073 Nakayama, Izawacho, Matsusaka, Mie 519-2145