Kinefuri Homa Festival (Kinefuri Matsuri)

Event Overview

The Kinefuri Homa Festival (Kinefuri Matsuri) is a historic ritual held during the annual festival of Abirokami Shrine in Nakatsugawa City. The centerpiece is the "Kinefuri Odori," a traditional dance where performers wear striking red, yellow, and blue costumes and hats, a cultural legacy passed down through centuries. This energetic mountain village festival is held to pray for a bountiful harvest.

Highlights & What to Expect

The most breathtaking moment is the procession of dancers in their vivid attire, culminating in the dramatic "O-shishi no Doiri" ritual. Watch in awe as dancers wear unique hats patterned with red, yellow, and blue checkers, rhythmically swinging their poles to the beat of powerful drums and spirited shouts of "Soi! Soi!".

Another highlight is the sight of the sacred horses (Shinme) and flower-decorated horses (Homa) racing up the stone steps toward the shrine. The combination of the dynamic movement, the traditional festival music, and the powerful Homa-uta songs creates an unforgettable atmosphere that brings the deep history of the region to life.

Schedule

The festival will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2027. Please note that times may vary slightly depending on the progress of the event.

• *Around 12:20**: The Kinefuri Odori procession begins, departing from Hirukawa (in front of the Hirukawa General Office).
• *Around 14:40**: The procession arrives at Abirokami Shrine.
• *After arrival**: The high-energy "O-shishi no Doiri" and the horse racing up the steps take place within the shrine grounds.

Venue & Access

The festival follows a route through the charming streets of the Hirukawa district leading up to Abirokami Shrine.

• *Starting Point**: In front of the Hirukawa General Office (Hirukusa-za)
• *End Point**: Abirokami Shrine

Tips for Visitors

The procession travels approximately 2 kilometers through the Hirukawa area. You can enjoy the dance by following the procession from the starting point near the Hirukawa General Office toward the shrine. Because the climax at the shrine attracts large crowds, we recommend arriving early to secure a good viewing spot.

Practical Information

As the event involves walking through streets and viewing from stone steps, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Please check the official website for specific details regarding payment methods, reservation requirements, or English language support.