Aikawa Matsuri

About this event

This is the annual festival of Utou Shrine, the general guardian shrine of Aikawa, and is one of the largest village festivals on the island with a history of over 400 years. The festival begins with rituals at the shrine, followed by portable shrines parading through the town. Along the way, taiko drum troupes featuring the dance of the bean-scattering old man and powerful lion dances go from door to door, enlivening the community. At night, a magical scene full of historical depth unfolds as returning portable shrine processions align with tall paper lanterns and red-and-white lanterns. It is a special festival where visitors can directly experience the tradition filled with the sentiments of the local people.

Venue

Utou Shrine

Aikawa Shimotomura, Sado, Niigata 952-1582