Taimatsu Akashi (Torch Festival)

About this event

Taimatsu Akashi, held in Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a fire festival boasting a tradition of over approximately 420 years. This festival is said to have begun to console the spirits of the many warriors who lost their lives in the battle where forces led by Date Masamune conquered Sukagawa Castle. The flames of torches swaying in the late autumn night create a powerful sight like a grand Sengoku picture scroll. The sacred fire received at Nikaido Shrine is carried around the city by spirited runners competing in endurance and transported to the venue at Mount Goro. During the daytime, various events take place, including the Taimatsu Procession carrying large torches like portable shrines, a small torch crafting workshop, and events at the Hospitality Event Plaza. From evening to night, there are plenty of events such as lighting the torches, the Small Torch Procession, and the Taimatsu Taiko drum performances. Food stalls will also be set up around the venue, where you can enjoy local gourmet food and specialties. Numerous torches, including massive torches weighing as much as 3 tons, are ignited, and the fantastical sight of the late autumn night sky turning red is truly breathtaking. The Small Torch Procession, open to general participation, and the spirited Taimatsu Taiko drumming by performers wearing hachimaki headbands add even more excitement to the venue. The festival begins with receiving the sacred fire at Nikaido Shrine standing on the Sukagawa Castle ruins and continues to the torch lighting at the summit of Mount Goro. To ensure the safety of visitors, various precautions are taken, such as making the viewing route one-way. Please be careful as sparks from the torches may fly. On the day, traffic regulations will be in place around the venue and temporary parking lots will be set up, but arriving early is recommended as crowding is expected.

Venue

Sukagawa City Midorigaoka Park

5 Atagoyama, Sukagawa, Fukushima Prefecture 962-0867