57th Chipusanke (Traditional Boat Launching Ceremony)

About this event

Chipusanke, which means "boat launching" in the Ainu language, is a launch ceremony to breathe spirit into a boat crafted using ancient traditional techniques. In Biratori Town, it is held annually in late August as a traditional event aimed at deepening the understanding of Ainu culture. During the ritual, prayers of gratitude are offered to the river god to report the completion of the boat, and to the mountain god to give thanks for providing the boat-building timber. In addition to a peaceful boat ride experience, various Ainu cultural activities are available on the same day, including traditional Ainu dance performances, listening to Yukar epics and storytellers, and woodcarving experiences. It is a historic event continuing since the 1960s (Showa 40s) and has been held more than 52 times to date.

Venue

Nibutani Kotan

55-60 Nibutani, Biratori, Saru District, Hokkaido 055-0101