Ebisu Shrine Annual Grand Festival

About this event

The Ebisu Shrine Annual Grand Festival, a traditional event adding color to autumn in Furubira Town, Hokkaido, is known for the heroic fire-walking of Tengu. Held every year in September, it takes place mainly in the Hamacho district on the east side of town. The highlight of the festival is watching the mikoshi and parade floats wind through the town led by Sarutahiko. At dusk, the festival's climax, the 'Hiwatari Shinji' (Fire-Walking Ritual), is held, where Sarutahiko wearing a Tengu mask calmly walks through blazing flames to pray for good health, safety at sea, and a bountiful catch. The heroic sight unfolding amid rising pillars of fire overwhelms spectators and offers a precious moment to experience the history and faith of Furubira Town. For local residents, it is an important festival to express gratitude for the harvest and wish for good fishing in the coming year, while for tourists, it is an excellent opportunity to experience powerful traditional culture up close. The Fire-Walking Ritual usually takes place around 8:00 PM.

Venue

Ebisu Shrine

989 Hamacho, Furubira-cho, Furubira-gun, Hokkaido 046-0121