Hassaku Grand Festival & Aomono Mikoshi

About this event

At Izu Shrine in Hayami, Kohoku-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, the "Hassaku Grand Festival" is held to pray for a bountiful harvest. Of particular note is the "Aomono Mikoshi" (produce portable shrine), which is being revived for the first time in 8 years. This portable shrine is a traditional cultural asset decorated using around 80 types of materials including grains, vegetables, fruits, and flowers. With a history dating back to the early Edo period, the festival begins with Shinto prayers by priests, followed by the dedication of the "Urayasu no Mai" dance by elementary school shrine maidens (miko). Afterwards, the "Aomono Mikoshi" carried by young men heads toward the otabisho (resting station). The revival of this rare festival brings great joy to the community, with many people looking on at its tradition and lively atmosphere.

Venue

Izu Shrine (Hayami Castle Ruins)

1098 Hayami, Kohoku-cho, Nagahama, Shiga 529-0341