Tsuruichi Flower Umbrella Float Festival (Tsuruichi Hanagasaboko Matsuri)

About this event

The Tsuruichi Hanagasaboko Festival is held to comfort the spirits of a mother and son, Otsuru and Ichitaro, who are said to have become human sacrifices to complete the weir at Mikuchi on the Yamakuni River, as well as to pray for bountiful harvests. It is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Oita Prefecture. The sight of numerous brightly colored flower umbrella floats (hanagasaboko) parading in a long procession is breathtaking. During the festival period, Shinto rituals and city parades are held, alongside a fireworks display, a river crossing of the portable shrine (mikoshi), and lively mikoshi parading. In addition, the 28th Tsuruichi Hanagasaboko Musical Accompaniment Contest will be held to further enliven the festival.

Venue

Hachiman Tsuruichi Shrine

3218 Aihara, Nakatsu, Oita 871-0022