[2026] Oura Shrine Autumn Annual Festival (Keiba Shinji Horse Racing Ritual)

About this event

At 'Oura Shrine' in Yorishima-cho, Asakuchi City, Okayama Prefecture, the 'Keiba Shinji' (horse racing ritual) will be held as part of the Autumn Annual Festival. This ritual is said to have originated in 1559 (Eiroku 2) when 40 sacred horses were added to the festival procession during the transfer of the Hachiman Shrine from Saburojima to Oura. Born from the turbulent historical background of the Sengoku period and passed down to the present day, it is a noteworthy intangible folk cultural property within the prefecture and a valuable traditional event for understanding the history of the Jito-kabu and Ryoke-kabu families who served in the festival. In particular, the Junikake Shinji ritual takes place from around 5:00 PM, featuring the powerful dedication of sacred horses as its main highlight. Please come and witness this traditional event, which is opened to the public once a year. Parking is available on the east side of the shrine. When observing, please observe good manners and cooperate so as not to cause inconvenience to cultural property preservation groups, other visitors, and worshippers.

Venue

Oura Shrine

7756 Yorishima-cho, Asakuchi, Okayama 714-0101