Habu Shrine Annual Festival (Habu Festival)

About this event

Held in Hidakagawa Town, Wakayama Prefecture, the 'Habu Shrine Annual Festival (Habu Festival)' is a traditional festival typically held on the third Sunday of October. The greatest highlight of this festival is the 'Two-Headed Dancing Lion,' which is rare nationwide. Without using any musical instruments such as flutes or drums, this lion dances solely in response to the presence and subtle signs emitted by the halberds (hoko) and bamboo clappers (sasara) held by male and female ogres (oni). Its unique dance invites onlookers into an enchanting world. This precious dance has also been designated a Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property and is carefully passed down as a traditional performing art that deeply reflects regional culture. Unfolding at Habu Hachiman Shrine, this festival is brimming with unique local charm combining ancient tradition with distinctive artistry.

Venue

Habu Hachiman Shrine

6290 Habumiyanomae, Hidakagawa-cho, Hidaka-gun, Wakayama 649-1324