Sand Throwing of Daihogo (Nationally Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property)

About this event

This is a traditional event called "Zunauchi" held locally during the autumn festival of Kotoshironushi Shrine in Daihogo, Tamanouracho, Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture. It is a unique festival where figures called "Sunaoni" (sand demons), appearing at the very end of the divine procession wearing shallow straw covers on their heads, throw sand toward spectators and houses. This sand throwing is believed to ward off evil spirits and epidemics by scattering pure sand from the beach throughout the village. The festival takes place from the 28th to the 29th day of the 9th lunar month; on the first night, Yokagura (sacred night dance) is performed, and on the second day, a village tour and sand throwing take place. The village tour procession circles around the district and demonstrates farming gestures at street corners. Livelied up by the chase between the sand demons, fleeing spectators, and children, it is a precious cultural heritage praying for good health, rich harvests, and bountiful fishing catches. It was designated as a Nationally Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property on December 8, 1979 (Showa 54).

Venue

Kotoshironushi Shrine

629 Daiho, Tamanouracho, Goto, Nagasaki 853-0413