Naofu Daisai Festival

Event Overview

The Naofu Daisai is a traditional summer festival held annually on July 31st and August 1st in Naofu, Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. The most striking feature is the 'Kajyo Togyo' (sea procession), where portable shrines (mikoshi) are carried by boat toward a Torii gate standing in the ocean. This event also features the performance of 'Gojinjyo Taiko,' a designated intangible folk cultural property of Ishikawa Prefecture, offering a profound glimpse into the history and spirit of the Noto region.

Highlights and Experiences

The absolute highlight of this festival is the movement of the mikoshi toward the sacred Torii gate in the sea. On the second day (the main festival), the sight of the shrine being escorted by boat through the waves to the sea-standing gate is truly magnificent.

Additionally, the 'Gojinjyo Taiko' performance is a must-see. Based on a legend from 1577 where warriors used striking masks and drums to deceive enemies, the powerful rhythms of the drummers wearing unique, expressive masks resonate through the air. This tradition is a cherished part of local heritage, and the intense energy of the performance is sure to captivate all visitors.

Schedule

The festival takes place over two days: July 31st and August 1st.

• *Around 21:00**: The Kiriko lanterns depart from their stations to begin the festivities.
• *Around 21:30**: The Kiriko lanterns gather at Hakusan Shrine.
• *22:00**: The Mikoshi and Kiriko lanterns depart.
• *22:30**: The ritual procession moves toward the sea-standing Torii gate. Once the shrine returns to land, the Gojinjyo Taiko performance begins.
• *23:00**: The procession of the Mikoshi and the lantern dance begins.
• *Around 24:00**: The Mikoshi enters the Okoya, followed by the grand dance of the Kiriko lanterns. The festival concludes as the lanterns return.

• *14:00**: The main festival begins at the Okoya, led by Gojinjyo Taiko performers on floats.
• *Around 14:40**: After arriving at the Hakusan Shrine plaza, the ritual of escorting the Mikoshi to the sea Torii gate is performed.
• *15:00**: The Gojinjyo Taiko performance takes place at the stage below Hakusan Shrine.
• *15:30**: The Mikoshi arrives at Hakusan Shrine, marking the official end of the festival.

Venue and Access

The event takes place around Naofu Town (Hakusan Shrine and Naofu Coast), Wajima City, Ishikawa.

• Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes from Kanazawa via the Noto Satoyama Kaido.
• Approximately 30 minutes from the Noto Mitsui IC via Route 249.

• Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Kanazawa Station via the Wajima Express Bus to 'Wajima Ekimae'.
• Transfer to a local bus (Machino Line) from Wajima Ekimae and get off at the 'Naofu' stop.

Tips for Visitors

You can enjoy the main events, such as the sea procession and the Gojinjyo Taiko, from the coastline or the shrine plaza. The Eve Festival at night is particularly magical, with glowing lanterns illuminating the seaside. Understanding the historical context of the masks and drums will deepen your appreciation for the intense atmosphere.

Clothing and Etiquette

As the festival is held along the coast and near the shrine, please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. For the night events (Eve Festival), be prepared for temperature changes and uneven terrain.

• *Payment**: Please bring cash for local food stalls and nearby shops.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required, but please check the official website for any schedule changes.