Guide
The Funatori Shinji (Carp Catching Ritual) is a celebrated spring festival held at Innyaku Jinja in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto. It is officially designated as an intangible folk cultural property. The ritual is based on a legend where, during a visit by Soga no Ishikawa no Sukune, local youths dove into Kagami-ga-ike to catch carp to entertain guests after bad weather prevented fishing. This energetic ceremony keeps that historical legend alive today.
The most breathtaking moment is seeing the young men, dressed only in traditional fundoshi (loincloths), diving vigorously into Kagmi-ga-ike. Watching them catch carp by hand to offer to the gods is a powerful display of vitality. You may even see the caught carp being tossed toward the spectators, creating a festive, unified atmosphere between the participants and the crowd.
The festival is held annually on April 29, which is a national holiday (Showa Day) in Japan. We recommend checking local information or official sources closer to the date for the specific ritual timeline.
The event takes place at Innyaku Jinja and the surrounding Kagami-ga-ike pond in Kagomi-cho, Yatsushiro, Kumamoto. The shrine's natural setting provides a beautiful, traditional backdrop for the ceremony.
This is a highly dynamic event where nature and history meet. To get the best view of the men diving into the pond, it is recommended to secure a spot near the water's edge early. Understanding the historical legend of the ritual will make the experience even more meaningful.
As the event takes place outdoors near a pond, please wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking. Please note that the use of drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) is strictly prohibited around the venue. For the latest rules and updates, please consult official local announcements.