Guzu-yaki Festival

About this event

The Guzu-yaki Festival is a traditional festival to ward off disasters and pray for bountiful harvests. Legend has it that in ancient times, a 'giant guzu' (monster) living in an old shrine pond devastated the village until a deity defeated it, bringing peace to the village and enabling a rich harvest—a blessing for which the festival offers thanks. The origins of the festival are ancient, and it is documented in the village chronicles of Iburihashi Village. Although once banned because the bonfires grew too large, local young men developed it into its current form: instead of burning trash, they carry the 'guzu.' The highlight of the festival is young men and boys in white tabi socks shouldering large papier-mâché 'guzu' measuring 7 to 8 meters in length, parading through the narrow post town to energetic chants of 'Wasshoi.' After three guzu gather in front of Iburihashi Station and perform a powerful dance, they return to the grounds of Furihashi Shrine and are burned by the youth. In addition, festival stalls and stage events are held on the shrine grounds for families and friends to enjoy. Activities such as writing wishes on scales to paste onto the guzu, a circle-dancing contest, and a raffle also take place, serving as an emotional cornerstone for the local community.

Venue

Tabata

To-5-1 Iburihashimachi, Kaga, Ishikawa 922-0331