Kumano Hongu Taisha Okadogi Ritual

About this event

The 'Okadogi Shinji' is a special traditional ritual handed down since ancient times at Kumano Hongu Taisha, where male parishioner youths dedicate split firewood to be used as fuel for cooking sacred offerings throughout the year. Boys from the year of their birth up to age 15 pray for physical safety and sound health, dedicating okadogi early in the morning on December 10 during the Harukokumatsuri held at the Shojoden, where the primary enshrined deity Ketsumiko no Okami is revered. At age 15, it becomes the 'mochiosame' (final offering), at which time the wood is wrapped in hosho paper, tied with mizuhiki cord, and inscribed with the boy's name before dedication. This ritual is said to have begun during the reign of Emperor Seiwa (approx. 1,100 years ago) and has been preserved as a special sacred rite. Alongside this Okadogi Shinji, Kumano Hongu Taisha conducts a variety of festivals including Yatagarasu Shinji and Yutobori Shinji.

Venue

Kumano Hongu Taisha

1110 Hongucho Hongu, Tanabe, Wakayama 647-1731