Hage Tenmangu Autumn Festival (Ushioni)

About this event

At the autumn festival of Hage Tenmangu Shrine in Nishitosa, Shimanto City, the Ushioni (ox demon) with the role of warding off evil leads the procession, and after purifying the path, the mikoshi (portable shrine) crosses. The scene of the Ushioni, mikoshi, and people disguised as Itsutsushika (five deer) parading across the Hage Chinkabashi (submersible bridge) is famous as an iconic sight of this autumn festival. On the same day, the Itsutsushika Dance and Tachi-odori (sword dance) are also performed at Hage Tenmangu Shrine, attracting many outside spectators. The Ushioni is a traditional custom believed to have been transmitted from Iyo; with the face of an oni (demon) and the body of an ox, it parades through the village to ward off evil and pray for a bountiful harvest. This festival is organized primarily by the local district, and spectators are requested to follow manners so as not to interfere with the proceedings.

Venue

Hage Tenmangu Shrine

2040 Nishitosa Hage, Shimanto, Kochi 787-1606