Hibushi Jizo Festival

About this event

The 'Hibushi Jizo Festival' held in Yamato Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a historic festival with a history of over 300 years. Its origin dates back to 1563 (Eiroku 6) during the Muromachi period, originating from prayers to ward off fire by moving the Jizo statue enshrined at Ryusenji Temple to the current Jizodo Hall in order to quell the frequent fires in Mamihara, which flourished as a post town. The festival highlight is the heroic 'Hadaka Mikoshi' (naked portable shrine) where water splashes dance; men in loincloths carry the portable shrine through the shopping street while being relentlessly splashed with water by spectators. Furthermore, the climax of jumping into the clear waters of the Gokase River while still carrying the portable shrine is packed with power. In addition, traditional 'Tsukurimono'—giant art objects elaborately crafted by various communities and organizations—are exhibited and paraded, depicting figures and characters reflecting that year's social climate. Made using traditional techniques without using any nails or glue, the Tsukurimono pass down ancient wisdom, as the materials can still be reused for business after disassembly. On the night of the festival's second day, a summer fireworks display will be held from the riverbed of the Gokase River, brilliantly illuminating the night sky of Yamato Town to mark the festival's finale. During the festival period, the entire Mamihara shopping street becomes a pedestrian paradise, bustling with food stalls.

Venue

Niku no Miyabe

61-3 Mamihara, Yamato, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto 861-3901