Shirahama Shrine Annual Grand Festival (Hitakisai, Sanbaso, Goheinagashi)

About this event

Located in Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the annual grand festival of Shirahama Shrine—the oldest shrine on the Izu Peninsula—is a traditional festival with a history spanning over 2,400 years. In 2026, it will take place from October 28 to 30. On the first day, October 28, the "Hitakisai", known as the foremost fire festival in Izu, will be held on the beach behind the shrine. This ritual serves as a signal to announce the festival of Mishima Daimyojin to the queen and child deities of the Izu Islands. October 29 is the annual festival day, marking the peak of excitement during the celebration. On the final day, October 30, the "Goheinagashisai" and the post-festival will be conducted. In this ceremony, sacred offerings called gohei are set adrift from the coast toward the islands from Daimyojin Rock behind the shrine to signify the safe conclusion of the three-day festival. This festival conveys the sacred traditions of Shirahama Shrine, which enshrines Ikonahime no Mikoto, the deity of matchmaking and childbirth, and Mishima Daimyojin, the deity of commerce and fisheries.

Venue

Ikonahime no Mikoto Shrine

2740 Shirahama, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0012