Saijo Festival (Isono Shrine Festival)

About this event

Boasting the largest scale among the festivals comprising the "Saijo Festival" held in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, the "Isono Shrine Festival" is a traditional autumn festival continuing since the Edo period. Gorgeous and lavish danjiri floats and mikoshi portable shrines parade through the city, captivating all who visit. A major highlight of the festival is the "Miyadashi" (departure from the shrine) held from midnight to early morning on October 15, creating a mystical and heroic spectacle as danjiri lit with lanterns assemble at Isono Shrine. On the following day, October 16, danjiri and mikoshi gather in front of the main gate of Saijo High School, allowing visitors to view their carvings and embroideries up close. Furthermore, at the climax of the festival on the evening of October 16, the "Kawairi" (entering the river) takes place near Isonobashi bridge on the Kamo River. As dusk approaches, the sight of approximately 80 danjiri lined up along the riverbank with lanterns lit is both mystical and spectacular. Reluctant to see the festival end, the danjiri from the Isono district surround the mikoshi inside the river to prevent it from coming ashore—a scene of indescribable power and intensity. With approximately 150 danjiri and mikoshi dedicated and the entire town enveloped in enthusiasm, this festival offers a prime opportunity to experience the valiant and graceful culture of Saijo.

Venue

Chiisana Kakurega enn

424-7 Komatsucho Shinyashiki, Saijo, Ehime 799-1101