Kijimadaira Village Autumn Festival

About this event

In Kijimadaira Village, as September arrives, annual autumn festivals are held at shrines in various districts across the village. On the day before the main festival, a festival eve (Yoimiya) is held, and people gather drawn by the sounds of flutes and drums. At Yoimiya, amidst lanterns casting their glow, lion dances (shishimai) are dedicated at the shrines in each district, wrapping the scene in an enchanting atmosphere. It is a traditional Shinto ritual passed down through generations in the community, allowing you to experience firsthand the unity of the local area. During Yoimiya, led by the notice board (seisatsu), a procession of Tengu (Sarutahiko) and lanterns takes place, followed by the cutting of the sacred straw rope (shime-kiri) by Tengu, and the dedication of the lion dance. The lion dance has distinct characteristics depending on the district, with different dance styles for male and female lions, and some districts featuring masked figures (Hyottoko and Okame). On the following day, the Annual Grand Festival (Reitaisai) takes place, where a Shinto priest is invited to pray for bountiful harvests and peace for the settlement. While the continuation of the festival has been threatened in recent years due to aging population and demographic decline, it remains a traditional performing art carefully preserved by the local community. Yoimiya is held from around 8:00 PM to approximately 11:00 PM, and warm clothing is recommended as nights get cold. It is important to observe good manners and watch with a feeling of respect for what the local people have treasured and protected.

Venue

Ankoku Shrine

681 Kamikijimadaira, Kijimadaira-mura, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano 389-2303