Benten Grand Festival

About this event

Held annually on the first Day of the Snake in September at Wakasa Benzaiten (Ejima Shrine), the "Benten Grand Festival" has long been affectionately known as "Benten-san," drawing many worshippers as a deity of business prosperity and matchmaking. In particular for matchmaking, it is said that carrying straw sandals (zori), circling the sacred giant boulder behind the main sanctuary, writing wishes on each other's sandals, and dedicating them will fulfill one's romance, making it a secretly popular spiritual spot. In ancient times, it is believed that divine messengers such as white snakes, golden snakes, golden frogs, frogs of unseen colors, and masked-face frogs appeared, and the present grounds are dotted with mountain streams, giant boulders, strange rock formations, huge trees, and mossy stone steps, exuding a sacred atmosphere. Not only do many devout believers visit, but couples seeking good ties also come, and first-come-first-served lotteries and other activities are held.

Venue

Wakasa Benzaiten Ejima Shrine

429-138 Mitsukura, Wakasa-cho, Yazu-gun, Tottori 680-0711